Be the Grace You Want to See in the World  

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What gift will you bring to this day? To this month? To the rest of this year? Might you give the gift of grace?

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To give the gift of grace to others, we must give ourselves grace—compassion for how we move through our lives in learning life’s lessons.  We all need a bit of grace at times…perhaps we can work on giving a bit of the grace that we would like to receive. Sometimes we have interactions with people that leave us wondering why they are being difficult.  Perhaps the person was curt or even rude.  Responding with kindness, might cause a change of attitude.  We do not know what challenges they are facing.  

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I do not understand the mystery of grace—only that it meets us where we are, and does not leave us where it found us—Anne Lamott

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This does not mean that we should accept abusive behavior meekly. Self-care is essential.  But de-escalation can take us in a more positive direction. By modeling thoughtfulness, the recipient of your mercies might realize that a positive, kinder-gentler attitude makes life easier.  

Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear—Ephesians 4:29

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This month, as we gather around our respective Thanksgiving tables, let’s see what we can do to share a bit of joy and kindness as we enjoy the bountiful harvest.  And if one of your relatives or friends says or does something that annoys you, take a deep breath and think of a way to give that person the gift of grace.

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Remember, the best criticism of the bad is the practice of the better.

—Fr. Richard Rohr

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Wishing you all a joyful holiday season.