Thursday, December 6, 2007

broken categories

Too often we put people in categories without taking the time to understand their circumstances.

I am learning that situations are usually more complex than I make them out to be. When tension first presents itself, I often make simplifications about the situation before really knowing the foundational issues. This week God is opening my eyes to new perspectives. I am very thankful for this mental expansion. At the same time I am emotionally drained. I want to take the time to walk in someone else¹s shoes, or at least listen to their side of the story, before I pretend to understand what is going on.

I am not saying this is easy. Neither am I saying that I know the right way to respond once I listen. But I hope to be crawling towards Christ regardless.

Before I left home, Susan Lobasso taught me that everyone wants to be understood, known and loved. I believe this to be true. I hope to a piece of humanity which restores dignity to those who are shamed, breaths life into those who are out of breath and gives people another chance. Count this as an invitation for you to do the same.

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