Milo

Milo is a special person.  I wish I knew more of his story.  So far this remains trapped in the California’s Lost Coast fog.  What I do know is the gentleness of spirit, kindness of heart, and embedded soul of integrity that makes this man.  I have had the opportunity to see Milo one or twice each summer.  I know this might sound like we are in a special relationship, but we’re not.  I’m merely a customer of his restaurant he recognizes each year.  I come in and find myself warmly welcomed.  I discover I am bathed in the warmth of recognition, shared memories, and mutual respect.  It is wonderful!
 
I often find myself trying to hide what’s inside.  The California fog has a purpose.  It is useful to hide the junk we know sits within.  My rationalization says others are helped by protecting them from my self.  I know this is extremely bad logic, but the mask remains securely locked in place.  There is no chance I am going to take the risk of letting others see what is inside.  They might conclude, as I already have, that what they see is ugly and repulsive.  There is a possibility I will not be accepted for who I am. 
 
I found myself struggling with the hidden within only to realize others are facing the same challenge.  Men and women of all ages cover what they hope others have not, do not, and will not see.  Yet we find ourselves recognized, and this isn’t new.  In an old story, “one of the Chief Priest's servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off [earlier in the evening], said, ‘Didn't I see you in the garden with him [Jesus]?’
 
Again, Peter denied it. Just then a rooster crowed.” (John 18.26, 27)
 
I wonder if I know who I really am.  The amazing fact is how Divinity knows you and me, thoroughly inside and out, and loves unconditionally with full knowledge.  We have a family.  We are part of something wonderful.  Enjoy Divinity’s warmth and family!