Subtitle: Or, at the least, I think I believe
Sub-subtitle: Or, at the most, I believe I know
In 45 years of pastoral ministry, countless times countless people have reached out for help; often concerning the material needs of food and shelter. As often, at best, the assistance I offer is temporary. At times, I have had little to no aid to render. For my always limited resources cannot resolve the historically gargantuan issues of hunger and homelessness.
Over time, two things I have learned to do.
Foremost, outwardly, joining hands with many others, aligning myself with institutions and organizations whose mission is to address the causes of hunger and homelessness.
And, inwardly personally, distinguishing between two primary reactions to my inability to be of immediate, concrete support.
Remorse, for I am saddened not to be able to help.
Guilt, which, perhaps paradoxically, arises from my hubris that I, viewing myself through lenses of omni-competence and über-resourcefulness, ought to be able to do something.
The first is genuine.
The second, necessarily, is false.
Believing, knowing this has proved to be of great help to this helper.
© 2022 PRA
occasional observations of mind and heart, soul and spirit 