Reverence For Others

Today's Spiritualiity & Practice (https://www.spiritualityandpractice.com/projects/the-reverence-project/overview) session centered on reverence for others and challenged us to treat all persons with the love and respect they deserve. This begins with friends and family but goes beyond them to include strangers and even enemies.

It's quite easy to honor our close friends and family. I think of them often because we have so much in common!

I can even commend the less-liked friends and family members. I might not agree with how they act or think but there is always something that tugs at my heart because I know they don't have bad intentions. They may be more misunderstood but I know they do not want to do harm.

I struggle, daily, when I see people misuse their power. For abuses on a smaller scale, such as bullying, I try to find some grace by considering the background or history. Bullies may not know any better and may have lived with abuse all their lives. I wish for them an escape from anything that teaches them abusive behavior and a better role model...but they must also learn there are consequences to all actions.

My feeling any generosity for politicians or other leaders who exploit the people they lead, however, is my biggest spiritual challenge. Honestly, I still can't. Perhaps it's because the damage is so severe and widespread. I, also, need to work on patience because my rose-colored glasses has been scratched so much that I cannot see a brighter future. It's been way too long since I've seen people in power work for the good of their constituents!

So I'm watching less news these days. Coming from a die-hard news junkie (since I was 16 years old!), this is a huge change for me. Also, I am acting (as my 16-year-old self): writing letters, contributing to campaigns and trying to solidify good arguments with people who are open to discussion.

Most importantly, I look for what is honorable in all people and wish them well - even with those I disagree. It's a lot of work!