As the evening of quiet jazz unfolded, I realized I was in the company of friends that would always keep me safe. The realization unfolded in the context of positive. Wonderful food, fun music, and great conversation the mixed the meaningful and the frivolous, reminded me of the good things life wants us to enjoy. As the evening unfolded, others joined us, each an addition that made us collectively richer because of their experiences and views.
Ironically, events before and later remind me that not every company that I am a part of is as positive. In addition to wondering about their agendas, the content extracts a price from one’s soul. I had not thought of how extreme the difference was and is until I read another’s writer’s description of his enemies. His words then fit; “Poison, lethal rattlesnake poison, drips from their forked tongues.” (Psalm 58.4)
As I sit in the sun on a warm tropical morning, I find myself whispering truths I would do well to hold onto.
While we cannot always choose the conversations we are a part of, we do have a choice in what we say. My words are either poison or a counteracting balm. I get to choose what they will be.
In the larger story, where we choose to be and who we choose to be with matters. I may not always realize it, but each encounter feeds my soul. This food shapes who and what I am from the inside out
Enjoying the gifts that Divinity leaves for us, every encounter with a nurturing soul is at the top of the list, ultimately rests with our choice. I recently ran into a friend that always lifts me up. I realized that my yes, my embrace of the hope and joy he offered to share, was an act of accepting a Divine gift.
Friends are priceless jewels that we are entrusted with. To each in my life, thank-you! Your acts of compassion, examples of hope driven action, and willingness to be merciful reminds me that you are God’s child.
