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GraceNotes: Holding the Space for … Reflection
#37 — May 1, 2015 |
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I believe that if Mohammed, Buddha, Jesus, and Moses all got together they would be best of friends because the spiritual basis of all religions is something that builds unity. — Yehuda Berg Greetings, Inspired Seekers! By a stroke of good fortune, my sister and her husband are living in Singapore for 2 years — longer if she has her way! On their recent visit back to the homeland, she brought me a gift. A green quartz necklace with the icon of the Bodhisattva Kuan Yin, balanced between the stones. For those of you who may not know, Kuan Yin is the symbol of compassion and mercy. Many reference her as “she who cries for the world” or Mother of Mercy. My sister could not have given me a more beautiful gift or one that holds more meaning for me. Or for our world at this moment. As I watch the news and hear of the struggles across our planet, including those in this country, I believe that all of the great Spiritual leaders throughout the generations are weeping. Where is the compassion? How can we all contribute — even in a small way — to relieving the pain in the world — regardless of the faith path we walk and regardless of the path of others we meet along the way? I visited a former neighbor of mine, a woman who has known me since I was seven. A woman of strong Christian faith who has followed my spiritual journey. A woman who is now 90 years old. She glanced at my gifted necklace and asked me about it. I told her the story. She paused and smiled. Hmm, she said, “It sounds like Mother Teresa.” I basked in the light of her smile and her wisdom. In a time when so many are in so much pain, when the daily rituals of life can be so overwhelming, let us reach out to all we see and greet them with compassion and understanding. Let us walk in the footsteps of Mohammed, Buddha, Jesus and Moses. Let us BE the compassion that the world needs so that the crying can be relieved. Grace-Fully Yours, Monthly Affirmation: I am the presence of compassion in the world. The Reverend Dr. Deborah Darlington extends compassion and service to people of all traditions, crafting sacred ceremonies and engaging in the holy listening of spiritual coaching. Give her a call at 215 260 1611 or email her at GraceMatters@TheSpaceForGrace.com and invite compassion into your life more fully. |
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