What is the definition of neighbor? That question was asked by the priest of a church where I play keyboards. American Heritage Dictionary lists these three definitions: “One who lives near or next to another. A person, place, or thing adjacent to or located near another. A fellow human.” The question was asked as a prelude to a sermon centered around the story of the Good Samaritan and how he helped the man in need whereas others passed him by. While we were instructed on how to help others, my thoughts turned to a dear friend who took a young woman and her child into her house. They had been living in a motel, trying to make ends meet with a minimal income, and when my friend met them, her heart opened and she brought them into her lovely home. I thought this was great, and it’s a good example of what we should all be doing for each other. But her family and friends did not think so. Most of her people thought she was being foolish to open her home to a stranger. And isn’t that where most of us stand on this issue? How many of us would welcome an immigrant family or any other people in need, unless they were friends or family? I know there are many instances where I am selfish and/or fearful. This homily and my neighbor’s actions are going to stay with me for a while, hopefully helping me to love humankind more actively. Namaste…
“If selfishness has given place to kindness, we shall regard our neighbor unselfishly, and bless them that curse us; but we shall never meet this great duty simply by asking that it may be done. There is a cross to be taken up before we can enjoy the fruition of our hope and faith.” Mary Baker Eddy - Science & Health Page 9:11-16
“You respond to what you perceive, and as you perceive so shall you behave. The Golden Rule asks you to do unto others as you would have them do unto you. This means that the perception of both must be accurate. The Golden Rule is the rule for appropriate behavior. You cannot behave appropriately unless you perceive correctly. Since you and your neighbor are equal members of one family, as you perceive both so you will do to both. You should look out from the perception of your own holiness to the holiness of others.” A Course in Miracles T-1.III.6:1-7
No comments:
Post a Comment