September 23, 2020-.
I was in a group session on Monday evening, in which the question was posed, as to whether it is more crucial to care for oneself or to care for others.
The short answer to the title question is: Both. Actually, anything one does for oneself usually impacts others, and vice versa. This is especially true if one is reflective and maintains a consistent presence, in any given activity.
I have two socially-responsible lines of activity: Substitute teaching, which I did yesterday and Disaster Response, which I will resume tomorrow. A flight to Dallas, via Denver, early tomorrow morning, will begin my second Red Cross deployment, in a month. Two weeks will be spent in “Big D”, purportedly in providing assistance to those still being sheltered after Hurricanes Laura, Sally and Beta. Much of the sheltering happens after the full-on storm has left, and the floods/power outages make life continually unpleasant.
The activities in which I am involved are impacted by my beliefs. ‘Abdu’l-Baha exhorts us: “Be fair to yourselves and to others, that the evidences of justice may be revealed, through your deeds, among Our faithful servants.” It was ingrained in me, long before I became a Baha’i, to consider the needs of others, in lieu of indulging myself. That has remained, by and large, a guidepost in my life. I would have to , of course, acknowledge critics who say “Wait, you weren’t very nice to ME, not so long ago” or “I remember when …….” The goal, however, remains the same-and none of us walks on water.
So, as with my earlier deployment to Louisiana, by way of Beaumont, the needs of others will be far ahead of my own needs-this being the essence of Disaster Response.
I think this is one of the strongest posts you’ve done in a while! By helping others in their time of need, you will be strengthening your own stature as a humane, compassionate person!
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That is my plan!
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The Golden Rule in action! Every time we put others well-being to the fore, we affirm their value. As others rise so do we…
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We keep reinforcing one another.
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Great post, Gary!
Btw… O noticed the URL is reading Peaceful Warrior. Was that something new? Something I just have not paid attention to but it is there?? Am I correct in thinking I remember you said you were changing your name??
Please forgive me for not knowing or remembering.
Oh and I have nominated you for The Thirteenth Disciple Tag.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Praying you are safe and well! Me and God love you, Brother! 🙂
https://gaillovesgod.blog/2020/09/25/the-thirteenth-disciple-tag-7-27-2020-and-8-16-2020/
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I appreciate your nomination. I am not sure when I will have time to check it out. I have had the URL for several years.
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No problem. What the Lord leads you to do.
I kind of thought so, but wasn’t really sure. I have had quite a few emails and posts from others the last several months in change blog names, privacy settings, or leaving WordPress altogether. While I have been trying to keep up in the emails and reader when God allowed, it is easy for me to get them mixed up.
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Many e-mails just get deleted, because God allows. Service always comes before self-indulgence.
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This is true, even for myself. I admire and respect your work to help others. I cannot even imagine what others must be going through. God bless you, Gary.
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Everyone has their burdens. Many of mine are of my own doing, but God does keep everything in balance, if we let Him in.
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