I woke to rain, wind, and wet streets. In other parts of the world, welcome to fall and seasons of rain. In the Emirates, it is unusual and worth noting. Schools have the day off, everyone pauses to be thankful, knowing the grey will eventually give way to light and eventually sun. I am always struck by the universal gift the rain represents. To those deserving, it is a reminder of heaven’s blessings. To those who may feel that s/he is less than deserving, it is a reminder of compassion, forgiveness, and restoration. Rain has something for everyone, at least this is the way Divinity’s plan plays out.
With the quiet reflection that followed, I found myself drifting back to a London Park tucked around the corner from where I used to live. Few knew of its existence. It would be easy to assume it was exclusive. I always found it to be the opposite. Quiet to the point of silence, when I entered the park, I found endless bench spaces waiting. I loved the openness I found in the small space.
Love, like great recipes, lives on by being shared. I know there are selfish tendencies within me that disagree. I also know the experience that comes with being kind, caring, and sharing. With each act of giving these away freely, love and hope grow and strengthen.
Accepting that I am loved and belong opens a door to sharing. In knowing I am embraced by Divinity, that I am part of Divinity’s family, I find the freedom and courage to give this away. The caution comes when either point is missing. One writer left a warning; “So the big question is, why didn’t Israel understand that she had no corner on this message? Moses had it right when he predicted when you see God reach out to those you consider your inferiors – outsiders! – you’ll become insanely jealous. When you see God reach out to people you think are religiously stupid, you’ll throw temper tantrums.” (Romans 10.19)
Love is exclusive and available to all.
