Called to be Peacemakers
When I was home to see my brother and sister-in-law recently, Becky and I went to the farmer’s market on Saturday morning.
Becky was happy to see her jeweler who was there. Steve was born in India and began making jewelry at age seven. His creations are exquisite.
But Steve had another kind of precious gem to offer us that morning.
The conversation went like this: “My children ask me, ‘Dad, why do you smile at everyone?’”
His reply was that we never know what is going on in another person’s life that day or in the past. Perhaps just one smile could make a small difference.
Steve applied the same reasoning to someone who might treat him badly. He would not treat that person badly in return.
He would treat the worst human being on earth with kindness and compassion because we never know what that person has endured.
As we left this man’s presence, I felt deeply graced as if I had just received a sacrament. I was in the presence of Holy Mystery.
Share this:
Plan for your future!
Leave the things you value to the people and purposes you value most.
Our Lady of Providence
The Sisters of Providence are here to pray for the real needs of your family.
Sister Donna,
That is lovely and a good reminder! I love your writings.
Thanks,
Linda
Donna, a beautiful reminder that a smile is something all of us can give one another. How true it is that we never know what is happening in another’s life when we encounter them. Small acts of kindness can change the lives of so many.
Sister Donna,
What a beautiful heart this man has. Thank you for sharing this story with us. It is a good reminder of the power of kindness. I always enjoy your writings.
Thanks, Donna. You gave me one of your best smiles earlier this week and it meant the world to me. Up with smiles!
To my dear Sister Donna,
I love your writings and this one was very special. You have a knack to see and put into words what some
Of us do not see………………….God bless you!
It’s different with most people these days – not only do they smile, they’re also loud and laughing, sometimes cursing remotely by cell phone. God bless us!