RBWords - Volume 32 - Number 7: July 2019
Something to Think About
R. B. Words = Vol. 32 = No. 7 = July 2020
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SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
I have not ever been very good at mathematics, and my limited abilities in that area are being challenged by the blizzard of statistics that takes place in much of the news media right now. There are statistics about the CORONA virus and the national elections in November and other areas of concern that leave me puzzled. The ones that point to the percentages of sick and dying relative to the general population as a way of reducing the awareness of the danger of the pandemic really amaze me. Those who are sick or have lost a loved one to the pandemic would not be consoled! The ones who are risking their lives to save the sick would not be amused! The refusal to wear face masks no matter what medical authorities say amazes me further. It would seem that love of neighbor as oneself ought to make that decision a no-brainer! But some folks balk, citing the U.S. Constitution, no less. Economic statistics are governing many of the public decisions. The loss of jobs and industry is real, but the “re-opening of the economy” in the face of the virus has been hand-in-hand with the refusal to wear face masks and observe social distancing. The result has been to increase the loss of lives of all ages. One can only hope that a concerted national effort that overcomes our cultural individualism will triumph and loss of life reduced until research provides a safe vaccine. My prayers are for the sick, the care-givers, and the researchers as well as for those who are grieving. AMEN
It Has Been Said
Our own experience with loneliness, depression, and fear can become a gift for others, especially when we have received good care. As long as our wounds are open and bleeding, we scare others away. But after someone has carefully tended to our wounds, they no longer frighten us or others. When we experience the healing presence of another person, we can discover our own gifts of healing. Then our wounds allow us to enter into a deep solidarity with our wounded brothers and sisters.
Henri Nouwen – BREAD FOR THE JOURNEY – A Daybook of Wisdom and Faith