Caring

     We all face decisions in our lives.  Some are small and perhaps will seem very insignificant in the overall stream of things.  Some are large and may have a major impact not only on ourselves, but upon all those around us.  Perhaps for generations to come --- some decision WE make could have major repercussions.

     Think of the life of Christ.  For almost 2000 years the things he taught and spoke have been affecting the lives of millions of individuals.  Of course, there are none of us that would have that type of effect from what WE do.   But think of other individuals within the past hundred years: Albert Einstein, John Kennedy, Martin Luther King, and so many others, including many women.  True WE may never achieve the status or caliber of one of these individuals, but can we make decisions in our lives that will have the potential for greatness?  WE CAN!  And those around us or in the future generations will benefit also.  But this will require a SPECIAL decision.  That decision will be “not to be so self centered.”

     I recall a “test” which was related to us in my sociology class when I was in college.  I know some of you will think that I am presently unable to think that many years back, but I assure you I am.  There was a “special” lecture that was given concerning Jesus’ account in the Bible about the “neighborly Samaritan”.  In the lecture it was clearly explained WHO could be constituted as being “our neighbor” and how one should show true interest and concern in others --- even if they are not the same nationality, skin color, or believe the same as we do. 

     The “test” [that is the real test as to whether the students in the audience had in fact learn the lesson which was being taught that day] came AFTER the lecture was over and everyone was leaving.  It had been intentionally arranged that a “sickly bum” would stop various ones of the students asking for help.  Sadly, the clear majority “didn’t have the time” or compassion to extend a helping hand --- even though they had just left the lecture on the “neighborly Samaritan.”

     Sadly for many we are still “failing” that test even today!  We “pass by” so many individuals who are in need of some type of assistance, but we are “too busy” or “unconcerned” to put forth the helping hand.  This type of thing goes on many times over in the everyday world.

     We don’t have to be that way.  Just remember: A big man (or woman) is not measured by how many people they are STANDING ON so as to appear tall, but how many people they are SUPPORTING by their efforts and lifting them above the crowd.

     And the beautiful thing about caring and compassion is that it doesn’t depend on what you have as much as it depends on how much you care.  Rather it depends on your willingness to do something if it is within your power to do it.

QUOTE TO CONSIDER

THOUGHTFUL GEM

"If you ever think of yourself as a loser ---

watch 'It's a Wonderful Life.'"