Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Many many years ago, when I was first studying the writings of the early Christian fathers and mothers, I came across a saying which I took to heart. It has guided my life since the first moment I read it. Alas, I cannot now say which of them wrote it.
Always be kinder than necessary—
you never know what burden someone is bearing.
I was reminded of it just this morning when a friend posted this:
They asked: “Why is is important to be kind?”
I said: “Because we walk by hundreds of people every day, and none of them wear
signs that say, ‘I’m grieving,’ or ‘I’m exhausted,’ or ‘I’m barely holding it together.’ But
they’re everywhere.
Kindness might be the only softness they receive today.”
How different the world looks when we are offered a bit of unexpected kindness from friends and strangers! Before I had my hip replacements, when step was like walking on knives. I was forced to use a walker to get around. I was so touched by the many and constant acts of kindness I received: a door held open with a smile and an acknowledgment, a hand stretched out to carry a bag, a wish of “good luck”. Even a blessing from the postman! They gave me hope and energy to keep going on.
And then there is Scripture’s take on the subject: “As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” (Colossians 3:12) And there are many other commands to be kind. What would the world look like if we all remembered this?
Don’t give up being kind!
Mo. Laura+
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COMING UP!
- July 12: Groceries Plus & Animal Food Bank Ingathering
- July 19 and July 26: Free books from Canon Lexa Shallcross after the morning service
- August 10-14: Ellie Escher’s Music Camp II
- Music Camp Show 8/14, 6:30 p.m.
- November: shampoo and soap collection
- 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, Girl Scouts, Parish Hall, 6:00-7:30
- Wednesdays, noonday prayer via zoom at 12:00
- Wednesday evenings, yoga class at 6:00 (discount for St. M members)
- Fridays, Iglesia’s Pathfinders Group, 6:00-9:00
- Saturdays, Iglesia Luz de Esperanza, 9:00-3:00