Return the Kindness
Julie Steele Mahoney of Saint Charles, MO, USA
Praise the Lord! O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever. Who can utter the mighty doings of the Lord, or declare all his praise? Happy are those who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times. -Psalm 106:1-3
Graceland’s volleyball coach was like an older brother. He’d never let me pay for dinner when I was a student. “When you have an opportunity to help someone else, pay this meal forward.”
The first summer I was divorced, I felt like a terrible neighbor. I was the last one to mow my lawn. Emotionally drained and physically exhausted, I did what I could and extended to myself an extra dose of grace when I couldn’t do any more. In the thick of figuring out what solo home ownership meant for me, things didn’t look good. A few times that summer, someone did the job for me. I could have wept with relief and gratitude. I thanked my neighbor profusely (after I figured out which one had done the good deed).
This summer marks a new chapter. When evening plans ran late, I pulled out the mower with little sunlight remaining. With a few swipes across my front yard done, I pushed the mower into my neighbor’s yard and decided this was an opportunity to help her. She’s a mama with three children, newly separated, and she’s figuring out what solo life looks like.
Halfway through the job, she came out. “What are you doing?” We talked for a few minutes as the night darkened. I resumed my task. She returned with a plastic container of pasta. My heart swelled. We’re taking care of each other. I took her gift knowing what it feels like to accept help and want to exchange the kindness.
That was a big night for me. I learned I am whole, no longer depleted, confused, or unsettled. I have the energy to help in ways I wasn’t capable of before. I am honored to return the kindnesses that have been extended. Being neighborly feels good and helps makes sense of the world.
Prayer Phrase
“Be vulnerable to divine grace” (Doctrine and Covenants Section 163:10b).
Spiritual Practice
This month, spend time each day noticing where divine grace is already pouring forth. Perhaps it is a simple awareness of creation’s systems and cycles that support our daily existence. The sun rises each day without being asked. There are underlying rhythms and relationships that hold the fabric of our lives together. Sometimes they fall into the background of our lives. We forget to see the natural generosity that spills over throughout our days-of the planet, the people we love, the Sacred Presence in all moments, the kindness of strangers we encounter, and the gifts we carry within. What is already being given in your life? What does it look like to be vulnerable to divine grace today?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
