Over the course of the day I’ve had the opportunity to listen to three incredibly insightful podcasts. While I’ll never walk in the shoes of others I am thankful for the opportunity to get a little insight into what they’ve faced. For clarity, I’ll ever even begin to feel the pain, suffering, and hurt they’ve felt due to the hatred, selfishness, fragility, and greed of others.

One podcast shared the story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg taking action to help women receive equal rights. Another shared the story of a pair of sisters following The Trail of Tears learning about what their ancestors lived through. The last told the story of the Mississippi flag going back to 1982 and moving forward to today. All three stories were heartbreaking and gut wrenching. Thinking that such things were even possible blows my mind. And that’s how they felt for me… I can’t even begin to imagine the feelings and emotions of those directly impacted.

I’m thankful for taking the time to listen to these stories today as they remind me to pause and look at the world through the eyes of others. They remind me that I have a responsibility to help others be treated fairly, equitably, and with love. All people are created equal, we need to help each other out to have the opportunities to live into their best selves.

While it was uncomfortable, they remind me of mistakes I’ve made in the past. They remind me of the blind spots I’ve had and still have. They remind me to listen, love, and respect all life. They inspire me to find ways to help others while continuing to focus on my personal growth and open mindedness. These stories remind me to be grateful for diversity, to have plasticity of mind, and to listen to others, especially when they are hurting. In short, to live as Jesus taught and lived – to love thy neighbor, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, economic class, political views, or any other constructs of society.

These stories today have left a deep impact on my heart and soul. I will carry them with me forever, and will use them as sources of strength to do what is right. They remind me to be a part of the solution, to be a part of the positive, loving, and open minded change our world needs.

Thanks!!!