A bigger role

The recent violent weather affecting the United States, the Caribbean, Mexico, Bangladesh, and other global communities make clear that the human condition is so much bigger than any one of us, and that the brotherhood of man includes each and all of us.

Our individual worlds pale with in comparison to the combined needs of the world as a whole.  Our personal issues reflect a microcosmic perspective, one that each of us would do well to consider in the scope of global need.

As one man, I can do some things to affect good and good will toward my earthbound brothers and sisters.  I can give, I can lend a hand, I can reach out in time of need.

As a human community, we can do much, much more, together enjoined.

But before the hand reaches, the feet move forward, the purse reduces, we must each search our hearts, for compassion, mercy, kindness, peace, patience, gentleness, and self control.

With the right leaning heart, we'll find a way to ease the burden of others, and in kind, ease our own.

By nature, I am a selfish, self absorbed man; this is a daily struggle,  But, by consideration and by practice, I can be generous.  By a daily reflection, a purposeful act of seeing beyond myself, I can step out of my individual space and begin to make a difference beyond my four walls, both real and virtual.

At my age, at any age, change is difficult, but possible and a tangible, reachable goal.  It simply takes the will to want to see through the eyes of others.  It takes practice, and for me, it takes the real Love of God.

I believe, in each of us, there exists a place in our heart where love and mercy reside.  For some that place shines brightly through, for others it abides deeply recessed.  For each of us, it may flicker on and off as the wind.

Today, the world hurts, wet, cold, hungering for mercy, for shelter, for a bit of sunshine and hope.

Today, you can make a difference in the life of some who hurt.

Many of us are blessed beyond measure, others not as much, some with nothing but the breath in their lungs.

Today, if my message finds you, reach inside and discover or re-discover your heart.  If you have not contributed lately to alleviate the suffering of others, do so now, before another hour passes.

Set aside any malingering disjointed attitudes and preconceptions about your world, and enjoy a new or revisited role for yourself and for your family, that of a giver.  It is a contagious attitude that not only changes your world, it changes you.