THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

~ Allowing Others To Be Who They Are

Is One Of The Most Valuable Gifts 

We Can Offer One Another ~

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The notion of writing about ‘Giving’, this month’s Faith Series theme, seems challenging to me: challenging, because the concept of ‘giving’ is so broad and multi-faceted. The word ‘giving’ is often used in reference to something offered materially, monetarily or by action…all of which are vital and invaluable contributions towards humanity. Lately though I’ve been thinking about a different kind of giving; about how I/we relate to ourselves and to one another.

One of the most giving persons I’ve known is my dear friend Susan. As social worker, animal rescuer, writer and volunteer; her lifetime was a tribute of giving.  Yet with everything she gave, none compared to the gift she gave others in just walking alongside them during some part of their journey. It was not that she liked everyone she met; rather that as Susan was present with others, she respectfully allowed them to be who they are. She seemed to have an instinctive knowing in her heart and spirit about how to just ‘accompany’ others in their journey. Part of this knowing grew out of her own life experiences and education, and part was her learning that we are all on the road, at any one time, to living as best as we are able at that time. 

Allowing others to truly be who they are; honestly, without judgment, snappy criticism, and/or gossip is one of the most valuable gifts we can offer one another. This gift of freedom and respect allows others to grow into becoming their own best selves, in relationships and in community.  In differing ways, this is a gift which allows us to experience love for ourselves and to mirror God’s love to one another. This really is a gift, this gift of 'accepting grace', which keeps on giving.

Most people believe in their hearts, or if not, they hope that God loves them unconditionally. The ability to openly accept others also helps us accept ourselves. This is not a gift that comes without discernment or conscience, but rather in knowing we are all living and growing within God’s Grace…with all our similarities and differences.   

I have been blessed in my life to have people near, far, and diseased who have and still do model what it means to love unconditionally. While this kind of love or 'accepting grace' does not show up all the time; when it does, even for a moment, it often casts a bright light of God’s love. We are all seekers, with stories, fashioned by the same Creator. 

In my own journey and work as chaplain or counselor, I’ve found when one’s story becomes more important than a relationship, the gift of ‘just being with and learning from another’ can grow dim. And in the process, so can the light which shines God’s accompanying love for us in our own daily walk.

In closing this blog note, I’m including a musical piece dedicated to those I have and do love, and to those I have avoided, as each person has and does continue to teach me what it means to love with acceptance and unconditionally.   The Enduring Gift of Accompaniment   

May the gift of 'accepting grace" shine in your life and in the lives of those you touch,

Susan