When I first moved to the area, everything was new. Many of today’s disciplines were not part of the conversation. If you walked somewhere, looking out for yourself was the only rule. Traffic lights were, at best, guides. Jaywalking was normal and acceptable if it was convenient. Fast forward, traffic warnings are in appropriate places. In addition to self-care, obeying traffic signs is both expected and enforced. When one does, safety is essentially assured. When one considers the alternative, stress, fines, and more can follow.
I slowed to a stop, wondering. The warning sign was positioned alongside the street, just before a minimally marked crosswalk. I questioned the primary audience. Was it me, especially at night? Did anyone driving notice the sign, especially with tinted windows? Even as I considered the answers, I listened to Life challenging me to look beyond the obvious and consider the lessons she was offering me.
Caring for oneself is the beginning of kindness and compassion. It is easy to forget the connection between the three principles of life’s relationships. One may think that everything begins with compassion, followed by kindness. Until one experiences both through actions and deeds, everything is idealistic smoke. With each act and word of care, one comes to understand what kindness looks like, confronted by the reality that compassion is alive and in motion.
Telltales in one’s life point to truths I often ignore. I see the writer’s comments playing out in my life as start reminders. “Hard and honest work earns a good night’s sleep, whether supper is beans or steak. But a rich man’s belly gives him insomnia.” (Ecclesiastes 5.12). Intent, purpose, and motivation leave their marks on my mind, heart, and soul. I may hide from others as the truth etched within me is loud and clear.
Life’s warning signs are with me, reminding me that in my freedom, I will choose. Today will have unique obstacles and barriers. In taking care now, I invited kindness and compassion to join me. Together, there are steps we can take and opportunities for intentional action.
