Recently I visited a site of remembrance where many had tragically died. This
location had a sacred aura about it and I was touched by the multitude of flow-
ers, candles, photos, prayers, and sense of reverence paid by the other visitors.
Taking time to pause in the middle of my day to reflect, not on countless e-mails
and too few sales, but on the pain of others was a spiritual awakening. Slowly
while deliberately taking in this environment, a single card no more than 5 inches
caught my eye. It appeared to be drawn by an adolescent. In the center was a
hand drawn heart with 3 simple words. The heart was vaguely reminiscent of the
Sacred Heart of Jesus and the three words. “Love not hate”
These are the words I strive to remind myself over the last several days since I
visited that memorial. “Love not hate” instead of I’m right and you’re wrong.
Love not hate rather than repeating stories on how I was wronged. Love not
hate as in clearing away sarcasm and instead opening my heart. Love not hate
as in putting away my snap judgments of others who don’t neatly conform to my
ways. Yes I believe this is the way for me to enter through the narrow gate.
Love not hate.
Prayer
O my God, help me to accept your enfolding love. Amen.
_______
Bob Hurd,
Parishioner, Outside Salesperson