Be the light. (Issue #7 8/16/2022)

Be the light.

These three simple words have changed my life.

We (human beings) spend a lot of time complaining, listening to others complain, or entertaining ourselves with media of people complaining. Where does all of that get us? No where. Psalm 23:4 says, “Yea, though I walk THROUGH the valley of the shadow of death…”. It doesn’t say a thing about pitching a tent there to hang out and make smores.

We hear a lot about how sneaky gossip is, but I think complaining is worse. It often disguises itself in the form of criticism, observation, and support. Have you ever mentally criticized someone you don’t even know in the grocery store for their attitude? How about observing a child having a melt down in a restaurant and turning to a friend to discuss how awful that parent is to allow their child to behave in such a manner? Do you ever try to be supportive of a friend by agreeing with and participating in long rants about something on the news?

I have done all of these things. And you know what? I will probably do them again. I am a flawed human being. The thing is…I always feel icky afterwards. Nothing about any of that feels encouraging, life-giving, or uplifting.

I remember Mister Rodgers saying, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” I will have my complaining moments. So will you. I hope both of us will have the awareness of self to stop in our tracks and change the direction of our thoughts and actions. We will move through the valley toward the light. We will BE the light by choosing patience and encouragement. I think my next conversation will start by asking a friend what the highlight of their day was. What about you?