I’ve not posted in a while. I guess I figured the last thing the world needed, right now, was more words. Sometimes, when words are overused and swarming in every direction, even the well meaning ones can lose their value and usefulness. I know that no words that I could string together could be very helpful in such an overwhelming time. And there aren’t many words that can be used, these days, that don’t draw criticism or invite misinterpretation. You don’t have to be online long to see that people are ready to fight about anything and everything, which is why I've read through this, at least, twenty times to be sure nothing could be taken the wrong way. If I tried to arrange too many words on my own, it would only add to the confusion of the day, so I'll just mostly use God’s words. 

According to that Word, 

 

Today, we could also say- I can write moving posts, share poignant articles, and post pictures which herald my good deeds. I can wear t-shirts which display my wokeness and give eloquent rants on the issues of the day. I can even have a clear understanding of history, vast knowledge of the struggles of others, and be an influencer with a large group of followers. I can believe in better days ahead, have great discernment, and give all my time and money to causes I find worthy. And if I do all of those things, but my interactions with the people I look in the face, each day, don't resemble God's description of love, then I'm just part of the problem, the noise, and the chaos. Like an irritating cymbal. My contributions are nothing. I have made no difference. I have not advanced the ball for God's team.    

 

I live in central Mississippi. I'm not blind to the fact that many parts of the country view us as backwards and racially polarized. I'm on the ground here and have been all my life and I don't see that much at all. While no place is percfect, we are mostly warm and loving people down here living in unity. But, I've taken notice that now, even more than usual, everyone is going out of their way to be kind to each other. Standing in line seems to consistently bring about jovial conversations among strangers. Even more effort is given to eye contact and friendly smiles and doors being held. Where our paths cross with others, we are more conscious than ever of the importance of showing love and kindness to our fellow man. 

     

Love is on the side of good. Love is on the side of God. If we're ever going to find peace again, that’s what has to happen. What I’ve seen here in Mississippi. God's people of all colors and all political parties will have to show the world how love works. One interaction at a time. Treating people with respect in the little corners where we live. Love is the only antivenom for hate. God’s description of love is required of all of His children no matter who is on the giving or receiving end. Without it, anything we do or say is only adding to the noise and, goodness knows, we’ve already got too much of that. 

The world needs a lot less cymbal.

 

It's drowning out the beautiful melody. 

 

Y'all have a great day!