by Adele DiNatale-Svetnicka
It had been a few days since I went for a walk so it felt so good to be outside, moving my body and talking with God. There was a smile on my face and a deep breath in my lungs. I was enjoying my surroundings and trying to be present to what would cross my path.
Then I heard geese honking. I looked around and found them…flying in “V” formation, honking and encouraging each other as they flew across the sky. My smile grew bigger. They say geese fly in the “V” formation because the aerodynamics are more efficient. They share leadership and rotate lead goose (the most wind resistance is here), and it helps them be able to see each other and keep track of each other. Their honking is how they communicate to each other and, I like to believe, a way to encourage each other as well.
It made me wonder why it is so hard for humans to do the same. Why is it so easy to criticize others instead of giving a “honk” of support and encouragement? Too often people feel that by complimenting someone or recognizing their talent and achievement, that it will take away their own merits and make them somehow “less than” the one being complimented. I know people like this.
“So always treat others as you would like them to treat you; that is the meaning of the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 7:12
“…you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength… you must love your neighbor as yourself. Mark 12:30 (all verses from The Jerusalem Bible)
Everything we do, and do not do, is wrapped up in this Golden Rule- our actions, our words, and maybe especially our thoughts.
Perhaps if we understood, welcomed, and truly believed that God loves us unconditionally, no matter what, we would be kinder to ourselves, love ourselves better and thereby be able to share that love easier with others. But we can’t share what we do not have.
Do you truly believe God loves you? Just as you are? Remember that God made you. Just as you are. And while we all need to grow and work toward becoming the best version of ourselves, God loves us every step of the way. The funny thing about love is that the more you have, the more love you seem able to share.
Take some time to reflect on what you really believe about God’s love for you. Be open to a conversation with God. Consider talking to your priest or a spiritual director to help you.