On Caring

My daughter is taking a couple of nursing classes, and had to examine a book, "On Caring" by Milton Mayeroff. I was proofreading her paper based on the book, and was surprised how it related to all that our church had gone through the past four or five years. As we talked about the book, I kept using examples of what had happened personally with me and others during those years of conflict. She finally raised her eyebrows and said sarcastically, "Is it always about church?"
I grinned that smile that I always smile, when accused by my family about taking church to seriously, and said, "Well, it is all about 'On Caring', and you know, that is Church."

I then had to read that small paperback and make my own notes. I sighed near the end of the book. Our church consolidation could have been handled so differently if we had all read the book. If all of us had been aware what the concept of caring might really have entailed.
But sadly, many accused each other of not caring about each other, the Church, and ultimately God. We could have had so much more positive interaction if we had not labeled each other. I am as guilty of labeling as anyone. I am still working on removing some labels from certain parishioners and church staff. I must give them the benefit of the doubt. They are sincere, hardworking people with good intentions.

So, must I smile and blindly agree with all 'the others' say and do? No, after reading the book, I am more aware of how I might really care about those in this parish. I realize that this awareness will involve some actual submission on my part. Submission to being with and caring for persons in a caring relationship, not merely a submission to " Doing what I am told."

Again, I am going to read Isaiah 57 before I go on with my day.