Monday, December 20, 2010

Dearest God,

This afternoon I felt a real sense of brotherhood and sisterhood. As I shopped, engaging people along the way, I had the distinct feeling that we were all sisters and brothers. I laughed with strangers, made suggestions to others, and took directions from those around me. We talked about different things as we waited in line. I told the fabric store clerk that her colored nails were ready for Christmas and she smiled. According to several customer service and check out employees, people have been in good spirits this year treating one another pretty well. Even the Salvation Army ringer patted me on the back. Aren't we truly one big family? Isn't this the way you want us?

How often have I felt distant, separate from those around me especially when I was facing difficulties in my own life? Yet, it is times like these that remind me that no one is uniquely set apart. Each person has brothers and sisters near and far. Our neighbors are meant to be family just like strangers.

At times why do we forget who we are, O Lord? Throughout the year why do we fail to reach out, to help, to give, to share, to offer ourselves to others? Why do we sometimes treat those around us as if they are our servants instead of our family members? Why do we lord over people instead of taking their hand and walking together? Why do we often act as if we are unrelated?

Thank you
for prized moments
when your
children celebrate together
the wondrous thing
called family.
Renew our interest,
our willingness,
and our love
for one another.
Teach us
to honor
each beautifully made person,
our sister,
our brother.
Remind us
that each
of us
is equally related
to you
and one another.
That's why
I saw
your divine sparkle
in each eye.

Love, Andrea