A Soulful Journey

"As everyone knows, there are only two automobiles within seventy-five miles of the hospital.   This afternoon, the inevitable happened; the cars collided.   We have treated the drivers for their superficial wounds.   Anyone who has reverence for machines may treat the cars.”   - Albert Schweitzer, announcing to his coworkers the latest news. Albert Schweitzer worked hard in the jungle to combat the many diseases that afflicted the natives.   Work was hard.   Yet, through it all he maintained a sense of humor which lifted the spirits of all and helped them to continue to function.   Moral? Learn to laugh.   It makes the bad things manageable.

A story from the tradition of the desert spirituality recounts how some monks asked Abba Peoman if they should awaken those who fell asleep during worship.   Abba Poeman responded, “For my part, when I see a brother who is dosing, I put his head of my knees and let him rest.”   Quoted by John s. Mogabgab, “Editor’s Instruction.” Next time, instead of criticizing, give someone the “benefit of doubt.”   You do not know what they need.

Invariably we are moved by things that affect us.  If it does not touch our lives it becomes almost unreal. A woman once came into a Synagogue where the rabbi preached an eloquent sermon.  Most of the worshippers were moved to tears.  A neighbor noticed one stony-faced woman sitting unfazed.  Finally she turned to her and asked, “Don’t you hear the sermon?  Doesn’t it mean anything to you?” “You see,” she replied,   “I am not a member here.”