Do we see and hear ourselves as others do? I think not. We all come from our own place, where we are, and we think what that place is is important - and well it may be - important to that person, but not necessarily to anyone else. As they say, 'you have to be there - you have to walk in another's shoes.' Not always possible physically, but if we learn anything from God's teaching, it should be compassion and sensitivity to those less fortunate.
Being less fortunate doesn't mean, less money, less material things - it means 'less anything that keeps a person stifled in their suffering and feeling of inadequacy. "Do I count? Do I matter? Why am I taking up space on this earth?" If any of us have these questions, we could be one of the less fortunate. One definition of 'fortunate' is: receiving good from unexpected or uncertain sources.
I am the first to admit, I don't understand how this works - knowing God doesn't play favorites, how can it be that so many are so unfortunate? Some say we create our own problems and misery - to an extent, I believe it. Others say, we make our own luck, yet others say there is no such thing as luck. These are more things I do not understand - we all have our own personal experiences and beliefs.
The one truth I am sure of is that the Lord didn't put us on this earth to be hurtful to one another, to ignore those in need, whether a friend, family or complete stranger. I often look back at missed opportunities when 'I was too busy, or it wasn't a convenient time' - it saddens my heart that I have these memories, these missed chances to show God's Love - and I know it saddens Him as well.
My job is not to analyze why and wherefore - my job, in my opinion, is to recognize and be proactive - not ignore a situation because it doesn't fit my schedule. It takes more than words to mend a broken heart, to lighten someone's load, to share a grief or loss - it is the direct and personal touch of a hand or comfort of a shoulder, or perhaps just the presence of a fellow human being, listening and walking with you side by side, saying "I am here to help - take my hand lean on me."
Be encouraged and be blessed,
