Look Outside

As human beings we think of ourselves as exceptional among the other beings of this world. Even among our own kind far too many of us believe ourselves to be enlightened or better than our brothers and sisters here and elsewhere. So when we see suffering in other places it isn't hard for us to be unsympathetic to the plight of those a little different from us. While we may not not say it out loud, our inaction cries, "let them eat cake", with a hint of cynicism. 

 This morning while watching a news report from Africa about families dieing because war has stopped the production of food. I couldn't help but hear in my mind the calls of many saying, "that's their problem, not mine".  While my heart broke for those individuals, who not unlike myself, simply want their children to grow up and be happy. 

 We can be a bit selfish at times, with rallying cries of "my four and no more", when thinking of those different and unlike ourselves. But if time and the willingness to learn has taught me anything, it's that people, no matter who, are not very different from ourselves when it comes to love and family. 

 So if this note somehow scratches at your armor of indifference, that a minute and look outside. Maybe you'll see someone not so different than you, that could use some compassion and not just your hate.    

    

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