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Two Memoirs
It was an emotionally gloomy day. I opened my e-mail to read words from a friend I had not heard from for quite a while. "How are you? I think about you from time to time and include you in my prayers." The letter closed with invitation to lunch.
This note meant more to me because this man and I had never been real close friends. Our friendship grew in a clergy support group that met monthly. He was present when I first shared about my divorce. He listened compassionately and asked questions rather than offering advice.
It is amazing how a short note can bring both a smile and tears. Possibly, it is unexpected thoughtfulness that touches most deeply.
On the dresser in my bedroom, I placed a note from a woman who lost her husband to death. I was the last to see him just prior to his death. I sat beside his bed, hearing his labored breathing. I did breath prayer with him. She appreciated my being present to her husband during that transition. And saying the breath prayer was a simple act of thoughtfulness, and was about all anyone could do for him at that closeness to demise.
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Comments
We do not assume, "I will do this for I know I will get a blessing." Pure, selfless thoughtfulness is with no expectation of return. Possibly, we rarely give without expectation of return, but such thoughtfulness is a worthy goal of Christian goodwill.
Suggestion For Reflection
What small act of thoughtfulness, without thought of return, have you offered that has brought someone a blessing this week?
See next page for details on OneLife Ministries, Brian's book An Ache for Union, and material pertaining to sources used in the writing.
Feel free to submit a query on how OneLife Ministries can better serve you. Thanks! Brian K. Wilcox
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