There is no them

How to End the Battle Now

2010-04-03T13:35:00.000-05:00

No matter what the reason; no matter the cause, if there is anyone in your life that you need to make peace with -- do it now.

Forget the blame, and let go of the grudge. It isn't important how you made your way into the fray, you can begin to experience immediate relief by simpy offering a forgiving gesture towards the other(s). What about right and wrong; you ask?

What about it?

Would you rather be right, or would you prefer peace? If you want to be right, then just acknowledge that the one with whom you are at odds is also "right." Peace is only possible when we let down our guard, and when we genuinely desire an end to our struggle in abiding with all. And let's face it beloved, Love is in the air. We can breathe it in and exhale our response to it, or we can continue to hold our breath and blindly yield to the baser instinct to stay mad or hurt.

Think. About. It.

And it's important to remember: "It is of no consequence that we love those who love us." What makes a difference in the cause of Peace is how we handle the opportunity to love those who are not kind to us. Right people deserve love just like everyone else, so go ahead and take the first step in achieving an end to the battle. Let the Love that served you before the battle step forward and quickly end it once and for all.

Go ahead. You can do it :-)

LUVWRX. Believe it!

When All Is Said And Done

2010-03-02T16:52:00.006-06:00

a song by Matt Redman --

Life´s too short to be lukewarm,

This is I know, this I know.

Jesus You can have it all

My every breath,

My every breath.

I need Your power to live this life,

This I know, this I know.

I can´t do this by myself;

You´re Christ in me

My only hope,

My only hope.

As I walk this broken world,

Tune my life to heaven´s song

For I am Yours.

And when all is said and done,

Tune my life to heaven´s song

Forevermore.

I just want to sing Your song.

--

It is a beautiful song, and it is so apropos for today. Heaven's song... do you hear it?

Listen friend.

Then read it again.

LUVWRX! Believe it.

Think of Them

2010-02-17T10:49:00.000-06:00

Almost daily, I meet individuals (like 30 minutes ago) who are in need. I don't usually know their need, but because I ask for it, I have the on-going privilege of giving something (anything) to a brother or sister.

I have discovered a simple joy that is having a subtle influence on me. It affects my attitude about others, compelling me to be a source of hope whenever I am able. I only recently made the connection but it springs from memories of a time gone by when I reacted to a person's need in a much different way.

I remember vividly the day it all happened. I came upon an intersection, and there he sat. I had seen him before but never interacted in any way. I was always so busy; you see. He sat on a backpack holding a sign which read, "Will work for food." In my mind, the only thing this guy had going for him was the correct spelling on his sign.

I was glaring at him, wondering why he wasn't working, as he stood and tried to quickly move towards me. Immediately I noticed his left pants leg, which was pinned just below the spot where his leg unnaturally ended. I raised my eyes to check him out only to see his face. It was then that my life changed forever as we locked eyes. What was I going to do?

We locked eyes.

At that point, I made a decision that has remained with me; one I am sure I will never forget. As he was making his way to my car I pretended to fumble around as if looking for spare change. As I waited, lying about my intent, the traffic light finally turned green. Thank God, I thought, as I drove away.

I drove away.

I'm not sure just what I was afraid of. Was it cowardice that caused me to decide not to help? I have often thought about that choice. And to be clear, I don't feel the guilt that I once did. No. I am living proof that our decisions help make us who we are, and I decided to fuel my desire for the good and the true with the memory of leaving that man the way I did. Since that day, I have received literally hundreds of second chances to make a different choice. It is automatic now. As a matter of fact, I keep money in my vehicle so that I will never be without one of the resources that aids my fellow man.

I am not going to ask you to give anything to anyone. That was another post. And this isn't so much about giving money as it is an attempt to remind us that we have ALL been in need at one time or another. Can we just turn our eyes from our human family member when there is something we can do to help? This is not about asking you to give. However, I will ask you just one question.

How would you have felt if you had been the one I left standing on the side of the road?

Beloved, we are One. We were created to be a family of diverse cultures and ideologies. Our illusions of separation and separateness are self inflicted lies we spin in order to justify selfishness and narcissism. Deciding to walk away from another in their time of need is a choice freely made out of our own hearts. I pray that we will examine our hearts and reconsider our motives. It is my sincere hope that we will no longer see others as them, but as another member of our family.

I choose to give for many reasons, and as long as I live, I will never allow another individual to feel excluded or passed over as a result of a choice I make. Giving has many rewards, some unseen in the moment of decision, but nonetheless long lasting in their impact on our perception of the individuals we share our beautiful planet with. Just something to think about :)

LUVWRX! Believe it.

There is No Them

2010-02-09T10:02:00.002-06:00

Have you ever noticed "them"?

You know the ones. The other ones. Those who don't match up with our requirements for inclusion. They don't fit in. Do you know who I am talking about yet?

Them. The others. The ones that look different. They talk funny; remember? They go to the wrong church on top of all that. These are just a sampling of the ways we commonly refer to others of our world as "them."

I don't mean to upset the apple cart, but there is no "them."

I do mean to say that I have been looking out at the world from behind these eyes for over 47 years, and I have come to realize that we are all truly equal. It doesn't matter what our skin color is or where we live. It makes no difference how we vote or whom we worship. We are all included by design. It was never intended to be any other way. Any attempt to exclude any one for any reason by any group, establishment, church, or whatever is unacceptable and is not the way of Christ.

All it really took for me to recognize this eternal truth was to place myself in the other person's shoes and really look at how they might feel under my form of judgement. I didn't have to walk around in the other person's shoes. You certainly don't have to literally be in their shoes -- especially if you have a foot issue. Just forget the shoe thing --

Think. About. It.

Think about how the other person feels about themselves and the world. You may not be able to. That should serve as a reminder that we can't really know how anyone feels. Just imagine how the way you choose to treat them will impact them. If after doing so, you can still argue for the justification for casting judgement on them, then e-mail me and let's debate it. :O

Just think about the fact that the other person has experiences that helped form them into who they are. Do you have fears in some area? I'll bet you the other person does as well. Do you want to be accepted just as you are? I'll bet the other person does too. If we allow all whom we come into contact with to be who they are and pass no judgement on them, aren't we doing unto them as we would want them to do unto us? I don't know about you, but I don't want to be referred to as a "them." I've been there. I probably still am one of them for some... that's too bad. It feels crummy, but it doesn't have to be that way at all.

I want to be accepted and loved right here, right now, without having to change in any way. I'll bet you feel the same. What if we really wanted it so badly that we began to see all creatures as having intrinsic value?

What if we just let go of the need to judge or profile anyone?

Do you think it would make a difference?

Could we change the world in the process?

Are we willing to give it a try?

LUVWRX! Believe it.

How to Improve Your Decision-Making Skills

2010-02-07T15:11:00.000-06:00

Decisions. Decisions.

Do you ever find yourself unable to settle on a choice? Is the comfort of knowing you're making the right decision eluding you right now? Why can't you just decide for goodness' sake?

This Ain't No Menu, Baby. This Is Real Life!

Sometimes trying to make a decision is like trying to open a child-proof medicine bottle with oil on my hands. I get so caught up in pros and cons that even the original issue can become cloudy. I'd like to possess the ability to see my choices clearly, pick the one best for me in that moment, and never, ever second guess myself. Sometimes I get it right. But there are times when I seem frozen in indecision.

Ironically, I talk alot about choice. Choosing can be automatic it seems, and we do it constantly on a daily basis. Yet there are moments when a particular decision can have far-reaching implications, involving the well-being of others.

I also speak about how meditation has helped me to find clarity and peace while I ponder an issue. It can be a great source of comfort to listen for God-breathed answers while waiting on a God-sized response to my need. Then, if I'm not paying attention, I catch myself just staring at a menu. Just staring... like I'm in some state of menu meditation, when I come to the realization that it has been more than a few minutes. The party I am with are all looking at me with their silly grins while my eyes are glazed over like Krispy-Kreme doughnuts. You know what I'm saying? I'm in a real dilemna. The kind that, to take too long in deciding, can get me run over in traffic. No kidding.

Faith. Hope. Love.

Beloved, decision making need not be a struggle, no matter the gravity of my situation. To have certainty in my choices can be a reality, free of pain and sleep loss. The very same One who guides me to the point of decision, is the same One who guides me to the correct choice. The same One who guides me out of on-coming traffice, is the same One who in the blink of a sugar-coated eye, provides peace in all circumstances.

It takes faith to believe that I am led to the tipping point as surely as I am provided a way to escape a tumble. I have a hope that all my steps are accounted for, and that hope rests in the knowledge that God has never abandoned me. When I leave my struggle in his capable hands, the Peace of the Spirit of Christ settles over my issue. When this is accomplished, his Love compels me to forget my struggle, and to remember that others face greater challenges than I.

The Love of Christ sustains me...

No matter how serious my decision may be, the Love of Christ sustains me. Whether I am choosing between the sushi or the hamburger; trying again or quitting; leaving or staying; I can know that my decision is best when I let Christ in on the process, and choose to partner with him. Remember these words the next time a decision becomes a challenge (even if it's only a menu choice.) They were spoken by Jesus, the Christ to those who needed to hear it. I know I did. God bless your decisions.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30 NIV

LUVWRX! Believe it.

God, Speak to Me.

2010-02-04T12:08:00.003-06:00

I stumbled across a conversation that I documented some time ago. Of course, reading it today was exactly how it was designed to work, because it really meant more to me as I read it this morning than it did originally.

Yes, God speaks to us. He speaks always. It is up to us to listen.

Here is how it went:

God, speak to me. I am listening.

What do you want me to say?

Something profound... lol.

Really? Is that what you want?

I really want you to tell me all of my dreams are coming true, or something really affirming like that.

I will tell you that you have nothing to fear. I will tell you that I love you, and that I am pleased with you. You have sought me with your whole self, and I have repsonded in like manner. You have the heart I gave you -- beating in your chest -- and I know that it is getting harder to get through the day without it being affected in some way. You are expanding beyond what you have known, and it is your heart that is leading the way.

Trust yourself. I do!

Trust what you feel when you don't know what to say or do next. Don't get ahead of me. We are not in a hurry.

I get a little anxious when the mailbox is light and the bills are big.

Yeah, you put too much emphasis on the mailbox money. I understand that you are responsible, and you want to pay those whom you owe. It's ok to be honorable. It is also ok not to worry about the outcome.

Surrender is the place you are now experiencing. You have let go of the pleasing phase; you have let go of control in most areas of your life, and in letting go of those things you wanted to control, you are have found freedom. Freedom to allow all of my love and goodness to fill the place where you used to hold all of your issues with control, respect, and love.

By allowing yourself to be loved and respected, you have actually allowed yourself to love and respect you. Wow! That is beautiful -- and quite a sight for sore eyes -- so to speak.

I am pleased with your attitude about letting go. Continue in this direction. Trust me -- and yourself -- trust Our instincts. We make a great team.

Am I hearing you correctly?

You are listening, and that is correct. You hear my voice because you recognize it. I am Love, and I created you to be love in action on the earth. That is what you are doing, and I love you. I love you.

I love you!

Son, my voice isn't limited, and my Word will not return to me void. I love you eternally.

Go forth, and do good.

LUVWRX! Believe it.

I Am Not Afraid

2010-01-19T12:13:00.001-06:00

Many of us are currently so ensnared by the grip of regret; some sort of fear-based, guilt-ridden, I did it again-type way of seeing our situation, that this "grip" has us literally immobilized. I want you to say to that Beloved, "I am not afraid!"
I am not afraid!

I am also not afraid to say to the darkness that, "I know who I am in the process of becoming. The dream of my Father will come to pass!"

We are created by and through Christ, who is the very nature of God. We are created with the same nature, and we can realize more of our purpose when we listen to (and live out) Christ through his Word in Micah 6:8, which states, "He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

Whoever you are, wherever you're from, your God says that when you show kindness and justice, when you offer grace and acceptance, and when you set aside judgement and present genuine forgiveness through Love, all is well. Do this child, and you will see the "grip" loosen, the chains weaken, and the darkness (ego) drop its head in shame as it finds itself in the Presence of real Love.

Love is all we need.

Never believe the lies you hear, especially the ones you hear yourself saying. You are Loved. You are forgiven. You are accepted as you are. And you are so special that all you need to do right now is let go, and fall back into his Loving arms.

You are good!

There... don't you feel better now?

LUVXRX! Believe it.

How to Know Your Purpose

2010-01-15T17:29:00.001-06:00

Why am I here?

How did I get here?

I know I am supposed to do something.

What?

How can we know with certainty our purpose in this life?

I don't know.

What did you expect me to say?

What I do know is that we are defining our purpose, whether we realize it or not, with each thought that precedes our words and deeds. Each time we do or say anything we establish our direction in life. How we see our situation; how we deal with our issues; how we express ourselves in the midst of it all; these are just a few things that can help us answer the question of our purpose.

If we desire to understand fully what our purpose may or may not be, we can begin by developing and maintaining a full awareness of our thoughts about the matter. Am I satisfied? Do I have contenment at this moment? How do I feel when I think about my current status?

My answer is the answer!

If I am in a good place (no pretending), then I am living out my purpose at this moment. If there exists the slightest departure from well-being, I analyze it and adjust my thinking. In this manner I am better able to define my purpose, understanding that it may change with time.

Jesus told us we should repent. He was telling us to change the way we see (think about) our lives, and how we choose to live. Usually, as we change the way we see things, the things we see seem to change. In truth, we have the personal power to choose to see things in such a way as to experience total well-being. I believe in doing so, we also experience a form of repentance.

We are repenting of the sin of denying our nature. Our nature is to have a joy-filled life of abundance. And one of the quickest ways to begin feeling good is to do something kind. One of the most joyful times in life is sharing with those who are in need... even if it's just a smile :-)

LUVWRX! Believe it.

It All Starts With Me

2010-01-08T18:59:00.000-06:00

Don't look outward

for the answer

to the dilemna.

The answer lies inside.

Don't look at others

for a place to point the blame.

There is no one to blame.

Looking outside

instead of going within

is an ego thing anyway.

It all starts with me.

I am the interpreter

of my experience.

I am the creator

of my reality.

It all starts with me.

It's not all about me.

It just all starts with me.

Truth.

Lies.

Illusions.

What do I see?

What am I looking for?

How will this day

be described

when it's done?

Whether good

or bad,

it's up to me.

My focus

is on improving me.

I look inside

to see the real me.

Because...

it all starts with me.

I look inside

where no mask

can disguise

the real me.

No pretending.

No defending.

No mind game.

Inside.

In the midst of me.

In the deep place.

That's where the truth,

my truth resides.

Deep inside

I know that...

it all starts with me.

So...

Who am I?

Where's the Love?

2010-01-03T15:54:00.005-06:00

A new decade in infancy.

An old idea resurfacing.

A new way needed.

An old prayer the answer.

Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We [are]. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled.

But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.

As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth. I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, [are] in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.

And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.

Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare [it], that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.

-- (John 17:9-26 NKJV)

We are One.

There is no them.

Christ was referring to all of us.

Therefore, let us be active participants within the prayer of Jesus.

LUVWRX. Believe it!

It is You

2009-12-29T17:21:00.002-06:00

It is You.

It is only You.

It has ever only been You.

And because of You, I am a better man. You have never let me fall. It is I who always chose to stumble. You always pick me back up, brush me off, and offer Your acceptance so that I might be made whole again. Though I will surely choose again in error as I make my way along this path we share, I know that I am never ever alone. I know that I will always have You.

It is You.

It is only You.

It has never been that it was not only and forever You.

Thank you for Your Love. Thank for creating me with the certainty that Love is all we have ever needed. When I make the conscious choice to make Love and only Love my method, I am completely in You. For I have also been created with the certainty that You have always been in me. I am forever grateful to You, and I love You.

It is You.

It is only You.

When the earth crumbles, and all the galaxies fade, it will always and forever only be You.

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.

For in his eyes, it has always been you beloved.

It is you.

It is only you.

It has never ever been that it could possibly be about anything other than you.

LUVWRX. Believe it.

First Love

2009-12-25T11:30:00.004-06:00

It is a very quiet Christmas morning as I write. No people. No laughter. Nothing. Or so it seemed as I woke up today.

This has been a year to remember; death, divorce, division, defeat. And in spite of the way those things hang on me like smoke from stale cigarettes, I find that I am anything but alone. The God of the Universe never leaves, never abandons, never ever divides, and can only lift up.

The King of heaven who gave more to me than I have ever been able to comprehend came to my room and gently reminded me that my first Love is the only love I need.... now or ever.

"Return to me," he said. -- Insert an awkward pause here. -- "It has been so long Father, I don't know how to approach you anymore." It was all I could of think to say. Without hesitation, he simply replied, "My child, you just did. And not only do I receive you, I bless you now in my name with joy, peace, and completion." I am reeling from the event, and I just wanted to say to you beloved,

"Return to your first Love."

You are not alone. Don't ever fall for the lie. If you have no people around you at the moment, it may only be so that you can become reacquainted with true Love. The kind of love that is consistent and unconditional. The kind of Love you and I are searching for. The Love that knows us completely, and doesn't find any fault with us.

Merry Christmas.

And take heart, your life is an unfinished script. So help write by filling it with memories throughout this next year. Make memories that will carry you through till the next Christmas where things are sure to be better for us. God's promises are dependable. Talk with him about your hopes and dreams right now. Your First Love is waiting for you.

God Bless You in the name of Christ who we celebrate this day.

LUVWRX -- Believe it!

Caution: Tripping Hazard

2009-12-06T16:52:00.003-06:00

Do you react to things you experience and that is your action, or do you take action and create the life you want?

Reacting

I got up this morning and as soon as I stepped out of bed I stumped my toe, and fell into the nightstand bruising my leg. It hurt so bad. Everything spiraled from there as I prepared to go to the job I hate just so I can sit and listen to all of the problems of the delinquent occupying the cubicle next to me. He always looks at me like my fly is open. Every time I see him, I want to scream, "Brush your teeth!" He is such a loser.

Creating

I woke this morning from a great night's sleep. As I got out of bed I stumped my toe and then I fell into the nightstand and really whacked my leg. If I didn't know better, I would swear someone moved that thing while I slept... lol. I couldn't wait to get to work so I quickly ignored the pounding in my toe, and just like that I forgot all about the event. I was in a particular hurry to get to work today. You see, there's this new kid in the cubicle next to me. He has had a rough time of it lately, but I really listen to him and we seem to be connecting. Every time he talks about his life I want to hug him, and reassure him that all is well. He's such a great kid.

Which Type Am I?

Can I accept that, in choosing, I determine whether I am creating along with God, or just reacting to life? Both choices contribute to my perception of my life; good or bad. And there is no one to blame when things seem to be going poorly for me. In fact, as soon as I change the way I see me (I am a good person!), I change the way I describe myself. When I improve my belief about myself, things turn around. Additionally, when I choose to see others the way God sees all his children, I realize everyone deserves my love; including me. It is always up to me to choose to offer love (to myself as well as others), or to choose to withold it.

Rearranging the Letters

Reacting. Creating. When I rearrange the letters, I illustrate how I can make a change, and see myself as either one. If life seems unfair, change the way you see yourself. If you hate others, change the way you see them. They pose no threat to you really.

Realize The Truth

To quote a portion of the introduction to A Course in Miracles: "Nothing real can be threatened. Nothing unreal exists. Herein lies the peace of God."

When we stand up for love, we take on the character of Christ as he prayed for our unity and Oneness, with God and with each other. We are One. We are created in the image of God to be about his business, and joining in with what he is doing. And what is God doing? He is waking his children from their slumber -- as we are willing -- and He is showing us who we really are, so we can better serve from a place of humility and authenticity. God is working with us (even while we are breaking our toe), and he loves us deeply.

There is one hope, peace; one world, now; one Love, forever.

When you get it, express it, share it. The peace of God is for all people. It is meant to be expressed. In the expressing it is shared, and in our sharing we are creating peace on earth.

LUVWRX

Contrast is Calling

2009-07-13T23:56:00.005-05:00

If it were not for contrast in our experiences, would we have the capability of recognizing just how good Life really is? This may seem a strange question at first glance. However, being confronted with change, which is simply contrast -- or opposites as others put it -- we are offered opportunities to consider things from a different perspective, and this equates to growth potential.

But Please Pay Attention!

Bloggers come from all walks of life, and I have been given a larger world view completely free of charge just by being open to what they write about. In the same way, being open to change lessens resistance to growth, and we find that we flow more naturally with the current of Life. I have found that it is much more enjoyable than swimming upstream! And the key is the awareness that change is not intended to hurt me.

Stop Fighting Change.

Allow. I did not say tolerate. Tolerance screams, "I still disapprove!" Allowing simply allows. No fighting. No judgement. In much the same way we are guided through this life by a benevolent Love, we can more easily maneuver the maze-like "obstacles" we sometimes face by just letting go of the desire to control.

Desire is good. Control is dangerous.

Would you rather win, or would you rather offer love? Do you prefer being right over being open? Do you even think about it?

Think. About. It.

Do something ridiculously kind for someone in need today. And do it for no other reason except to experience the contrast of otherwise pretending to be too busy to see them.

There is no them, and I love you! -- jb

The Cost of Kindness (Why We Give)

2009-07-01T05:42:00.005-05:00

I had blogger block for a while so I asked my son, Brandon, to look for someone to whom he could offer kindness, and I would write a post about why we give. Simple way to get back in the flow of writing, and it was an idea just in passing as we were discussing his test scores. It wasn't one of those things where your kid says in response, "Oh, okay Dad. I sure will." ... and it is never mentioned again.

Brandon knew that he was going to enjoy it, and get to help me at the same time. He said, "I look forward to it, and I will let you know how it goes in a few days." Brandon is a student at the University of Alabama. He is a standout for his dedication to his goals and his purpose, and the absolutely natural way in which he coexists with everything and everyone. He is very easy to be around, and he is a particular joy for me.

He is pure joy for his father.

So he's a good kid. You get it. He related to me the following story: He was walking out of class and met a man who explained that he needed $60.00 and a ride to where his car was disabled. The gentleman was a graduate of Alabama, and further he was schooled in video production which is Brandon's major. He only had $60.00 dollars in his checking account, so in his mind he had just enough to help this guy get what he needed. He goes to school full time even in the summer. He also works 30+ hours a week, so he understands money. His new acquaintance promised to call in an hour or so and meet Brandon in order to repay him :)

He gave his last dollar.

To some, it would appear my son is simply out some money for being naive'. To others it may seem he was a victim of a con artist. Here is what he did: He aligned himself with Love, and without question, gave what he had just to be kind.

Just. Be. Kind.

The greater the sacrifice, the greater the reward. The darker the night, the brighter the dawn. It was a simple story that made me feel so good. He opened himself to the opportunity to be kind even though it might cost him some money. If we all just once a day would do something similar, it would change everything.

There is no them anyway so why not just treat everyone the way you would like to be treated. By the way, I gave him $100.00 just because it felt good :) Not a bad return.

Peace. -- jb

My Friend Died

2009-06-10T21:21:00.003-05:00

My friend Glynn Luckie Mosley died recently. He was 92. He was the best example of making love the main thing in a marriage that I ever observed, and I miss him today.

I wrote a story about our coming together some time back. I re-post it today just for me. You are free to read it of course.

http://jeffbakertalks.blogspot.com/2008/08/you-never-know.html

Please look at the person asking for money today. Please don't turn away, and if you can't spare any money, at least offer a smile and an encouraging word. But for God's sake, don't look away.

There is no them. -- jb

My Name's Stella

2009-03-15T10:01:00.001-05:00

It was a warm, southern-style evening, much like any other March evening in his small community. He was minding his own business, pumping gas into his SUV, just thinking about his dinner when he heard her: "You tryin' to clean it up a little baby?" He assumes she had been watching as he picked up a floor mat to shake out the dirt.

All he wants is to get his gas, get a sandwich, and get back to the solace of his home... all without any fanfare. He is thinking, Not tonight. But he is forced to say, "I'm sorry, I can't hear you. Hold on." By this time she is approaching him. He turns, and they lock eyes. He sees something in her wild smile. What is it? Is this why I came out tonight? Stella is about to say hello.

She is an unusual looking woman. In fact, with the way she's dressed and the way she carries herself, it is easy to mistake her for a male. There are very few teeth in her mouth. He can tell by her ever-widening grin. "Can you spare some change so I can get something to eat?"

She reeks of cigarettes and old alcohol, but that smile. What is it? "You like Subway?" is all he can muster. Her eyes twinkle as she says, "Oh, it's my favorite!" He is smiling without knowing it as he suggests that she go ahead and place her order.

Once he tops off his tank, he parks the big SUV and walks inside. There she is dancing and singing to the apparent music playing in her cap-covered head. When she sees him she stops and with a genuine look of appreciation, introduces herself, "My name's Stella. What's your name?"

Before he knows it, words are coming out of his mouth that he is certain did not originate in his head. He turns so no one can see, and handing her a twenty dollar bill, he whispers, "Here. Why don't you use your own money." Her exuberance was infectious, and before he can prepare himself, with the whole store observing, she literally leaps to him. She gives him a hug so big he is certain she no longer smells like stale smoke and beer.

After joking and talking about their common acquaintances in the community, he comes to the realization that they only live two miles apart. You see, as he heads home to his high-end neighborhood, he passes many shacks and trailers scattered on both sides of the winding country road. He wonders which one is hers. Then as if divinely inspired, covered in goosebumps he tells her how glad he is to meet her. At which point he discovers that he really means it.

Stella, his new friend, floats out the door with her foot-long combo and disappears into the night. He is left standing there reflecting in amazement at the events of the last half hour. Now smiling bigger than he has in a while, he makes his way to his truck, and with a rekindling of sorts taking place in the embers of his spirit, he returns home.

After enjoying his meal, and still treasuring his experience, he realizes why he ventured out this evening. He heads straight for his computer, and begins to write. Stella has inspired a new post that serves as a vivid reminder that there is no them.

Thanks Stella!

What If?

2009-03-09T19:30:00.001-05:00

What if the world was like a big crowded bus with lots of seats, and the only way to ride this bus was to actually have a seat to occupy? What if there is only one seat left, and when you look around you suddenly realize that there is only you and one other person left who are not yet seated?

Would you give up the last seat?

Oh, by the way, this person has a different skin color than you. Or maybe their teeth look funny, or they smell odd. For some reason you can't take your eyes off of them. Maybe it's the strange language, or clothing that makes you stare. It is of course, very possible that the person you are looking at is simply the opposite of all the things you think are good and acceptable. They don't quite meet the criteria for inclusion. They are the enemy. They are one of them. No time to be specific, they just don't belong on your bus. But wait...

A choice must be made now.

There is no time to delay, the bus is leaving. What is your decision? Can you look at the unworthy and just leave them behind? Will you offer the last seat on the bus to that person? Will you open your heart or close your eyes? Can you even look at them now that you are confronted with such a choice?

It is the way we look at "them" that has, and will continue to determine our destiny as the human race.

We are a world that is comprised of tremendous variety. We humans possess our own unique variety within the world we share. It is in this variety that we are offered the opportunity to appreciate all of life. If we see our perceived differences as simply variety, we disable the destructive impact of judgement. When we do away with judgement, we are moving away from fear. When there is no fear, love is all that remains. Where there is love, there is no them.

What if we all just chose to forgive?

What would our world look like?

Think. About. It.

NO PEEKING!

2009-03-03T01:02:00.001-06:00