Common themes seem to dominate each story of an individual’s day. While the people and settings change, the themes of uncertain relationships and intent, information overload, and feelings of being overwhelmed are common. It is as if I am watching a play with minor variations endlessly repeat. Everything is so familiar! The initial warmth that I vaguely remember has long been replaced by a dull resignation to going through the motions on listening, caring, and staying engaged.
A recent reminder caught my attention. It was nothing complex or new and yet it stopped me, forcing me to remember, reflect, and pause. As I look back now it seems as everything was moving at blur speed. Endless demands, looming deadlines, and a sense of being overwhelmed dominated. I was moving in slow motion while everything rushed on around me. My attention was drawn to a young boy that was crying over something that had deeply touched his heart. There was no tantrum on display. In fact, there was very little movement at all. In his silent tears, he slightly older and taller sister reached to him and silently embraced him in his tears. Both seem oblivious to everything around them and life oblivious to them in return.
I was unwillingly taken to images in my mind of two sisters comforting each other in times of distress and uncertainty. I could see the love between them then and now. It was as if the brother and sister in the chaos of the moment were reminded me of what is most important in life. I am not the first to forget. In an old story, a writer brings the forgotten into focus through two questions; “Who created a world of wonders in the Land of Ham, who gave that stunning performance at the Red Sea.” (Psalm 106.22)
To the young brother, I hope you always know the embrace you were gifted by someone who cared. To the older sister, thank-you for leading me back to the heart of living. I hope always you experience what you have freely given.
