Yesterday was a step from winter’s cool towards the summer’s heat. Looking at the weather report, one might not have noticed the difference. If one noticed the details, such as humidity (high) and the UV index (maximum), the temperature felt like 38C or 100F under a direct sun. Very quickly, I realised how thirsty I was.
In the shade, with a class filled with ice and the company of good friends, I could feel the soothing relief satisfying my thirst. As another day unfolds in the relentless march towards endless days of an Emirati summer, the reflection of my soul’s thirst is hard to ignore.
Friendship is an essential element in satisfying the thirst within me to belong. It is a gift received and equally, given. In the fresh experience of this gift, I understood how valuable friendship can be. It satisfies a longing within me, quenching my soul’s thirst in a way nothing else can. The supply within is deeper than I imagine. As I share, the well within overflows.
Acceptance is a gift amplified with an embrace and the experience that follows. When it is unconditional, one heart opens to the presence of Hope and Possibilities. I often forget the critical role acceptance plays in addressing the need within my soul. I think of Paul’s response to the needs of his day, “First, though, I’m going to Jerusalem to deliver a relief offering to the Christians there.” (Romans 15.25) In context, my priority of the day lies in accepting those on my path, unconditionally and without reservation.
Friendship and acceptance are like ice in a glass. To deal with the thirst within, they must be mixed with living. Even this is not enough. Action, a long full expression of life with these two in the mix, will enrich all who drink a divine gift.
In the shade, with ice in hand, we enjoy laughter and conversation. Sheltered from the heat, we were refreshed, encouraged, and filled with hope. The thirst will return. I have a fresh awareness of how to respond when it does.
