We All Have A Story To Tell

As Fall approaches, I spent some time with a thoughtful group discussing whether we are living our values and are we actually practicing what we say we do.

We discussed the idea of being a judgmental world which can be critical of others who are not like us or differ in culture norms, beliefs and ways of living.

We see many lives being lost in war over territories and resources, people struggling in bad circumstances, global temperature wreaking havoc, and divisions among people who were once friends and family.

It’s hard to embrace the idea of a caring and loving world when this stuff is happening.

Sometimes, you feel helpless, and just retreat into what is comfortable. Maybe you lose your faith or actual faith in humanity?

Some ask, “Is there a God? And how do you know?"

For me, I often wish God would come down possibly in the form of Jesus, sit down and say, “PK – Here’s my plan for you. You really have been screwing up here. You can fix this."

Or “Try this approach.”

Maybe, God would go on to say, “You have done this well. Here is my next step for you.” And maybe I might get some other advice that could make me a better man, a better teacher, chef or tennis player.

I look around me and still stand in awe that we have plenty of people aware of the poor, and yet we often leave those who are victims of injustice in the dust.

We do have many community service, advocacy, and justice education programs, but I bet some of us wonder where we fit in this picture, and “Does someone truly care for me?” We all have a dignity to preserve, yet it is hard to reach out when you feel your own purpose may not be found worthy.

Where I work, “Teaching Minds and Touching Hearts,” is a mantra I have been able to accept, embrace and make it a daily part of why I do what I do. Yet, I have to revisit this to ensure I am not falling off track.

And, I am also the poster child for falling off track. So, I am trying to do a better job of taking care of my heart and my health so I can be fully present when someone needs me.

Inclusive communities respect diversity, where the attempt is made to leave no one out, and the hope is that everyone finds a place where they can contribute. We all have strengths and limitations and can help each other in a complementary way.

Yet, when we are too judgmental and critical, without hearing the entire story of the living breathing gift we see in front of our eyes or in our own communities, we cannot build a sustainable bridge.

I think this bridge can be built with care and love, and it can continue to remain stronger longer - with maybe a touch up to what holds it together from time to time.

I still wish God would come down to Earth, give me a playbook, solve all of our problems and show me how to write something without coming off as critical or judgmental.?