It is the sunlight that brighten up the leaves and the buds in these two rose plants. The colours without the sunlight look dull and casual. With the sunlight the leaves and buds receive a new appearance. The life of the plant is protected by the sunshine, which make the photosynthesis possible for its survival.
A reflection on this sight has generated within me a growing consciousness the gift of light!
The kind words we speak, acts of thoughtfulness we share with each other, mindfulness we offer to those who are strangers, etc become the sunshine in the life of others. It is we who can brighten the lives of others with meaning, hope and direction.
I engaged with a family yesterday, who have two of their children in developmental departure. Listening to them gave me a sense of the burden which they have about their future. Their questions are not forthcoming with an answer. I felt that life is devoid of charm, delights and celebrations which make life rich and enlivening.
At the end of an hour of listening and conversation, all what I was able to offer was offer of my availability to listen!
Listening is one way of helping others to feel unburdened and lighter, which in itself is likely to bring a new level of consciousness about the prospects ahead.
Listening is a way of feeling, receiving, and participating with others which make them feel valued and accepted. It is not the answers which we provide that would make the difference, but the attention we offer in listening!
We become the light in the lives of others when we free ourselves from our personal pursuit an are willing to include the needs of others in our consciousness.
What is life worth unless it is a 'light and lamp' to others!
M.C.Mathew(text and photo)
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