The Power of Compassion: A Lesson Learned
As I navigated my grocery cart through the rainy Friday night, I was struck by a familiar sight – a man in a wheelchair collecting donations for the physically challenged. His determination was inspiring, but it was his story that resonated deeply with me.
A Personal Connection
I couldn’t help but think of my brother Frank, who spent the last years of his life confined to a wheelchair due to Lou Gehrig’s disease. His struggles were a harsh reality check for me, forcing me to confront my own biases and limitations. I used to park in handicapped zones without a second thought, until I saw firsthand the impact it had on my brother’s life.
A Change of Heart
Watching my brother’s health deteriorate was agonizing, but it also taught me the value of compassion. I learned to appreciate the small things, like a kind word or a listening ear. It made me realize that people with disabilities aren’t defined by their limitations, but by their strength and resilience.
The Refining Fire of Hardship
Hardships have a way of shaping us, of refining our character and polishing our souls. They teach us to be more empathetic, more loving, and more kind. As the Psalmist so eloquently put it, “But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.” (Psalm 86:15)
A Lesson in Gratitude
As I stopped to talk to the man in the wheelchair, I was reminded of the importance of gratitude. I thanked God for the hardships that had made me a more compassionate person. I thanked Him for the opportunity to learn from my brother’s struggles and to become more like Jesus.
A Prayer of Thanks
Father, thank You for the trials that shape us, for the struggles that refine us. Use them to make us more like Your Son, to make us more compassionate, more loving, and more kind. Amen.
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