In our communities it seems that we have a complicated idea of American Independence. We often seem wistful about the days where people quietly cared for one another as a matter of course. Where neighbors had a sense of communal solidarity. Yet at the same time, we celebrate and even lionize self-reliance, self-help, and self-determination.
Our lives are actually filled with the giving and receiving of help. No one ever stands alone.
I couldn't help this man get home for Christmas, but I could recognize his humanity. I could acknowledge his need and lighten his load even if only in the smallest of ways.
No comments:
Post a Comment