As we look into the shining eyes of a child so we look back at ourselves – in all their wholeness and light.
It’s time to return, for we are all children;
And as we pass into adulthood and elderhood, we come to learn that nothing in this material world is permanent;
No matter how many riches we have amassed, we cannot take any of them with us.
Life is but a candle,
So let us give now with warm hands so that we may light the lives of others.
As we exclude others, so do we exclude ourselves;
As we discriminate, so do we isolate ourselves;
As we blame others, we blame ourselves;
As we control, so we imprison ourselves:
As we take all we can, we are left with nothing;
As we lie and cheat, so we lose ourselves;
As we are unkind, so we hurt ourselves; and
As we torture, so we are tortured.
In times of trouble and suffering, it is more important than ever that we give what abundance we have.
In times of confusion and uncertainty, it is critical that we are curious, open and questioning.
In times of disconnection and isolation, it is more important than ever to connect, reach out and share.
In times when all seems dark, it is more than ever that we find our light within.
By Tania de Jong AM
“What do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?” The Bible, Mark 8:36
