No matter how disconnected we feel, we are always present in the lives of others, and them in our own.
Whether that be online, through memory, the way we shaped someone, or even just being known by God. Without others we would have no one to love, or be loved by. Yet, how we value others, and our connections are so often overlooked, and even deliberately disrupted in the modern world.
This week August 8 is the annual celebration of Mary MacKillop, Australia’s first and only canonized saint. Chances are, even if you’re not religious you’ve heard of her, and maybe even feel a bit special when someone mentions her being Australian.
Mary MacKillop was an inspiring and compassionate woman; educating the most remote and poor, working closely with the indigenous peoples in a time where this was considered unusual, calling out sexual abuse, guiding her fellow sisters, and so much more. A major facet of her life was that she willingly gave her love, time, and energy to others. She didn’t regard her talents as her own, or work for the sake of self.
The lives she helped to change were impacted eternally.
How often are two ducks seen waddling together, or a herd of cows standing watch over those resting. We were not made to be alone, and this is seen throughout creation.
After all, God put two in the Garden. So this week, reach out to someone even in the littlest way, and let someone reach out to you no matter how undeserving you may feel.
May we love others as we love ourselves, and as God who is love, loves us.
