Remaining Christlike

Today at church I had the opportunity to visit with a friend of mine that I haven't been able to see for quite awhile. I was so excited to see her and she always acts as though seeing me is one of the brightest spots in her life. I'm sure she does that to all of her friends.

We spent most of the second two hours of church talking. Probably not what I'm supposed to be doing but, friends, I can tell you I got more out of our interaction than I would have out of paying attention to the lessons that were presented. This dear friend of mine has been through the wringer. Not a bit of exaggeration here.

I asked her what's been going on in her life and she opened up to me quite frankly. She told me things that I know she hasn't shared with many. Things that would have destroyed some of the strongest of us and here she was just pushing on. Not only did she share these trials with me, but there was no hint of self-pity or longing for sympathy. As she was telling me about what's going on in her life, she made a point to tell me that her marriage was strong and she was GRATEFUL for her wonderful husband and the many good things in her life. Talk about seeing a very dry glass as half full!!! I was utterly amazed.

During the course of our conversation she made a point to, get this one, tell me that she's been thinking about me and worrying that things might not be okay with me. Let me clarify. She's concerned that the yogic world might be affecting my spirituality. I was floored! Why would someone who has more than their fair share on their plate be concerned about my spiritual health? What's even more amazing is that we haven't interacted in quite awhile so she would have NO way of knowing what's up with me - emotionally, spiritually or physically! I told her she was dead on but not to worry, I was going to be okay. My daughter has made it her mission to see to that! We both laughed.

Driving home from church, I was touched at how Christlike she was/is. Christ had so many personal challenges, yet he always showed and had love and compassion for everyone. I was humbled. It all goes back to what we have all been taught from day one. When you lose yourself in service and compassion for others, your burden is made to seem light. This lesson that I received at church today has touched my heart and I would gladly give up any organized lesson at church to receive this kind of wisdom.

Thank you, my dear friend. You are an example to me and I will strive to be more like you - more Christlike.