Man in the Mirror

I was sitting on my bike the other day, by the pier... on my way to work out
Its a place that I kind of meditate... connecting with the ocean, birds, & sky... while watching the others around.
A spot of opening up to the moment and listening for guidance,
INteresting how this location is in the middle of a public place

One situation arises on occasion here... usually a Saturday afternoon
There being a group of religious people who come to "share the Bible"
They used to bring a big stuffed, semi-mechanical standing ape (?)
And always! with a soapbox to stand on
The progression of their "sharing" is always the same... finding someone to put "on the spot" for judgement
Leading to being labeled a liar, cheater, adulterer, and sinner, etc...
I always leave having wanted to discuss this blasphemously arrogant display by a follower of God

So this one day, a man sitting on the steps in front of me stands up to hand me a small note...
Leads us to having a conversation about that group and their display.
I can feel & hear this man's faith, quoting scripture quite well.
It is obvious that we are speaking of the same God, source of Everything...
But then he tells me no, my wisdom is incorrect... somehow I am not on the same trail leading Home
This makes me quietly laugh, feeling my true compassion rising...
I guess I can accept two children looking at the same Father and one seeing a Loving provider and the other fearful(?) of a condemning ruler... even after discussing "His Chosen Son's words," the two brothers see things with different views.

I appreciate moments like that, it's like looking in a mirror...
I think thats what we do for each other, why we have relationships.
Each of us holding up Our Mirror as steady as we can for others to peer into and See Themselves...
I know it Ain't easy, but much growth can be shared when we are truly willing.
Patience, compassion, understanding, awareness, discernment, confidence, humbleness, appreciation, curiosity...
This exercise can be very enlightening and strengthen one's journey through this lifetime.

You must have heard the song by Michael Jackson,
Here it is again to remind you of what is written on your Heart :-)
I dedicate this song to all those who have let me look into Their Mirror and have been willing to Look in Mine...