Whether it be coincidence or carefully planned, this month is full of living celebrations. From all cultures, walks of faith, political platforms and social pioneers, we have several opportunities to learn more about the people we share this planet with.
Please take a moment to consider your own humanity and learn something new about a place, a person, an issue or an organization that speaks on behalf of someone in need. It is so easy to notice the differences between us as we declare daily our ‘individuality’ and uniqueness. However, today we need to reflect on those elements that we all share in common ~ the basic human needs including love and care, safety and peace, food and water. We all need to know that we matter here and that we offer something that can be valuable to others.
Step away from the hectic pace of the shopping season, learn more about “needs-based” thinking and get involved with local community efforts . As a primer to recognizing what is going on behind the words of the person you don’t agree with, the belief and value systems you don’t share or the social unrest and violence you see, here is a link to a non-violent communication approach (workshops available locally) that might help you gain some middle ground.
As we with chronic illness struggle to learn what it means to ourselves, it is important to recognize that others are doing the same thing. Despite our illness, the needs between us are still the same and by finding a way to work out the challenges and focusing on the things we share will help us get through (and over) the hurdles we see as barriers. This might be especially helpful to us for the holidays.
Today, understand that what is truly important in this world can be found in the hearts of every one of us ~ and we all, as fellow humans, have a right to having those parts of us honored by all~
