The Power of Bit by Bit.

I saw a homeless man shivering near the tracks today.

From above, I watched as the foot traffic forged its path – like ants avoiding water – never once making contact, rather simply widening their berth.

Sometimes, I wonder, what causes some to continue on, whilst others must turn around? And, why are we so darned afraid to say, “Dear one, I am here for you…”?

And though, I had planned to make an early day of work – it would seem, ‘today’ had other plans.

With the weather sharply turning, I made my way back home – retrieving an old duffel bag, now filled with clothes. I packed a blanket, a winter jacket, and a pair of boots that once belonged to my father.

And then, I made my way back. That’s the right thing to do, you realize – to help others when they are in need.

As I approached, I could see his eyes shifting downward – as if, embarrassed by his circumstances. Or, perhaps – in anticipation of a most certain indifference.

“I have a few things,” I offered, “And, you shouldn’t be out here all alone.” I then handed what little I had gathered, with an offer of a hot breakfast and maybe some coffee.

We made our way to the station cafe, and, pausing at the door, he said, “They say I can’t come in.”

What nonsense is this? That we might turn our hearts away from those who are most in need.

“Charity isn’t about pity,” Mother Teresa once said, “it is about love.”

Indeed, to love without expectation of reward truly is the most noble of things.

And though, we may not be able to change the whole of this world – my darlings, we can certainly do our bit.

And, ‘bit by bit’ is precisely how this candle of compassion remains lit.

To be faithful in those smaller things, because it is within them that our greatest strength lies.

About

Tara Lemieux is a mindful wanderer, and faithful stargazer. Although she often appears to be listening with great care, rest assured she is most certainly‘forever lost in thought. She is an ardent explorer and lover of finding things previously undiscovered or at the very least mostly not-uncovered.

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