This week we explored another session on Everyday Nonviolence through a story of Catholic women who braved the streets of the barrio to feed, pray, and find peace within the gangs of their congregation. These women were challenged to change the world without being afraid through finding the humanness in those who were different than them.
As a group we began exploration of our own need to find humanness in the world, nation, community, church and family. From personal experiences of feeling disenfranchised to sharing of experiences in going beyond their comfort zone to learn about other cultures, the group began to think about how we could go beyond ourselves to find humanness in those around us.
During her sermon, Carolyn shared the story of a young man in her congregation who felt disenfranchised enough that he took his own life. He did not feel human, though he was surrounded by them every day. Unfortunately, this is a common situation in a world filled with judgment, negativity and violence. It is easy to lose hope and forget of the humanness of all humankind.
Finding this common ground is what enables us to look beyond the differences between us and others. Finding the humanness is what enables us to learn how we can help others. Sharing the humanness is what puts us on level playing fields.
This week, I challenge you to think of what you would do if you were not afraid. Who could you find humanness with?
Peace and Blessings!
Natalie Byington, President