Touch

We hold incredible power within our grasp.  I recently experienced the highs and lows of friendship, all through the indirect touch of friends.  In one case it representing a new turn – the willingness to use our friendship to one’s own ends.  The result touched me in ways I could never imagine.  The trust and confidence of decades has been torn.  I am not sure it can be repaired.  The willingness to put myself into new forms of relationships has vaporized.  I cannot imagine a reason to resurrect the closeness of days gone by.  Whatever one thinks of life, it is still numbing to understand how the future pivots on individual moments in the now. 
 
In contrast there is the dialogue and trust built on truth.  Truth is not always easy.  Often it is difficult and complex.  In relationships it is the fabric on which hope and possibilities exist.  I find myself trying to understand how Hope is always born on and from truth.  When someone touches you with truth, one is energized, able to see hope, and willing to take on great challenges.
 
We hold an incredible power within our grasp.  Often we see one side or the other.  Frequently we become drunk with arrogance and confidence.  Metaphorically we are kings of our domain!  We talk like a long forgotten king of old; “Assyria says, ‘Aren't my commanders all kings?  Can't they do whatever they like?  Didn't I destroy Calno as well as Carchemish?  Hamath as well as Arpad? Level Samaria as I did Damascus?  I've eliminated kingdoms full of gods far more impressive than anything in Jerusalem and Samaria.  So what's to keep me from destroying Jerusalem in the same way I destroyed Samaria and all her god-idols?’” (Isaiah 10.8-12) 
 
So what is stopping us?  The simple answer is “nothing”.
 
You and I can nurture or use.  We can take or give.  We can live from within the heart of a community or take on life as an individual.  Whatever our choice, we will touch others.  Today can be one of healing, compassion, and hope.