Grayscale

What a world we live in.  Or so we often say. 
Simple
Complicated
Connected
Lonley
Beautiful
Impoverished
Diverse
Unjust

We look at the big picture. 

And we see our own little problems, getting the fridge fixed, finding time to get the dishes done, making a grocery list.  And our own little things vary greatly based on where we live in the world, our economic status, our family status... etc. 

It's not an easy concept, and one can easily get lost in contemplating the world and your place in it.  So often we focus on what we can.  Providing for our families, giving to groups when they ask and we can, trying to better ourselves with education and saving.  Thinking about (in detail, not cliche) what is happening to others around the world is not generally one of those warm fuzzy things for most of us here in the US.  Because we are on the extreme high end of the world (even those of us who are poor!). 

The "heavy" issues of human rights, religion, politics, even basic right and wrong - not your typical best conversation starters, but to me they are incredibly important. 

Yet the only thing I know, is that I don't know enough.  My highest spiritual gift is Servanthood.  (those of you who know me are shaking your head in understanding)  God has gifted me with the desire to make others lives easier and just a little brighter.  I'm torn on where and even often why. 

There is no "right" answer.  There are loving caring moral people who are on both sides of the Wisconsin budget issue.  There are loving caring people moral on both sides of the abortion issue.  There are loving caring moral people fighting poverty and homelessness and ignoring it. 

Do I love talking about these issues... YES.  I do.  Others don't.  (Sorry friends).  I also love learning more about... well everything.  And you learn more from those who think different and even disagree with you than those who think just like you.  But at the same time we must always remember to love.  To honestly listen, respect, and care about the individuals on the other side of the issue from you.  To think of them as part of the same human family that you belong to and not as your enemy. 

I know being open and loving to people you disagree with is difficult.  But it is a widely accepted way of life (or endorsed more than lived) by millions around the world of many cultures and religions.  What kills me is that we don't LIVE it.  WHY???  Why do we insist on hurting each other?  With words, with weapons, manipulating relationships... over and over again we deliberately cause others pain.     

But it's not black and white.  Nothing is.  It's all grayscale.  Only when we can really begin to show true love can we begin to see the color beyond the gray. 

One person at a time.  Me first.  (Thanks Ghandi)  Then hopefully others (that's you).  Someday the world.  

Wishing you peace and love,
your sister in Christ~Erin