Do to others what you would have them do to you!” ~ Matthew 7:12
The day felt like a sauna. Heat glimmered off the pavement
like a Sahara mirage; weather that invited deep calm and shady rest. By early
afternoon, Lupe’s day was nearly half done. Despite the oppressive heat, the
85-year-old pushed a mower across an emerald-green yard, intent on keeping it looking
beautiful.
His labor was no longer by youthful vigor, but of sheer discipline
and pride that honest work etched onto his soul. His work ethic was driven by a
deep sense of responsibility and resilience.
So they offered to do the job for him. The octogenarian
appeared visibly relieved and grateful for their help.
Turns out, Lupe was actually mowing a friend’s lawn
in the oppressive heat. The policemen finished that yard, then proceeded to mow
Lupe’s yard, prune his bushes, and complete other random work around his home.
Neighbors gathered, impressed
by the officers’ commitment to serving their community in more ways than just
enforcing the law. They explained why Lupe was so exhausted. He’d been tending their
yards and watering plants, from sunrise to sunset, since moving in thirteen years
ago. Expecting nothing in return, Lupe worked from the goodness of his heart, and
also to make their entire neighborhood more beautiful.
They praised him as more than a neighbor, but as a friend
and role model, embodying the very essence of community spirit and kindness. They
likewise found inspiration in the officers’ humility and selflessness. It was
the perfect example of the Golden Rule unfolding in real time.
Kindness is a virtue pleasing to God and a spiritual gift. Kind-hearted
people are the glue that keeps society from imploding. They seek bonds and purposely
work at maintaining them. When we acknowledge them, nurture and support them,
the entire community rises. Helping others at the right moments creates powerful
waves into future generations.
Yet, life can sometimes be the
hardest for the kind-hearted. Generously giving to others makes them wonderful
- a blessing to everyone in their orbit. But it can take a toll on them too. Motors
in constant motion, they seldom take enough time for self-maintenance and refueling.
As such, they can be prone to exhaustion, burnout, and compassion fatigue.
Think of the people in your life
who continuously give to others in need. They’re probably the most empathetic,
emotionally intelligent, and sensitive souls you know.
The care they give others must
come back to them. Love them the right way or lose them. So, encourage them to occasionally
shift their focus and recognize that their needs must also be cared for. Help
them remember why they’re valued beyond their ability to serve others.
Almighty God, Your Golden Rule stands as a
timeless reminder to love and respect others. It's yet another call for empathy
and understanding another’s situation and point of view, especially when
different from our own. Amen
