Kind.
Welcome to Word for the Week, the series in which I:
share my experience of hearing God’s Word in Mass last weekend,
explore what I believe the Lord is calling me to do about that Word, and
ask how this Word might impact your life, as well.
---
My Word for the Week is really simple this time around. Just one word.
Last week, I went to an early Mass close to home. Since my 9-day tour concluded the night before, David and I agreed that I would attend *all by myself*! My Word for the Week was nestled in Psalm 103: "the Lord is kind and merciful."
As I left church, I thought about a discussion during my tour. On the plane ride home, someone who works at Phoenix Sky Harbor introduced himself to me. I told him, to the apparent entertainment of those around us, about my issues with the slogan, "America's Friendliest Airport."
"Have they never been to Texas? Or the Midwest? What exactly is their standard of 'friendliness?'" I asked with incredulity.
Being from Texas, this gentleman agreed with me. "I always remind them to smile!" He said.
I volunteered my services as a native Midwesterner, a public speaker, and an all-around approachable, friendly person. I could give an in-service for their staff on "The Different Faces of Friendly!"
Because, I visit this airport almost weekly. It is many things. But "friendly" does not come to mind. Anyway, this gentleman told me who to contact if I want to continue the conversation.
As I thought back on this exchange in light of my Word for the Week, it became clear to me. *This is not my job.* In fact, it would be downright un-kind of me to press the issue when there's other business for me to attend to (like writing, rehearsing music, tour planning, and producing a new video to share with you soon).
To be "kind" for me this week means to mind my own business. Come to think of it, that's how my son describes the cultural values of Arizona: "Mind your own business."
I'm starting to see that maybe kindness (and heck, perhaps even friendliness?!) does indeed take many shapes. And I'm grateful to the Lord for reminding me to quiet down and attend to the tasks in front of me.
Like Martha who ran around all busy and probably loudly, I'm allowing the Lord to correct me this week. Lent is a good time to settle down and to be a little more like her sister Mary, anyway.
How might the Lord be inviting you into the quiet of His presence this week?
___
Special thanks to VIP Patrons:
Kim Moline
Dick Safranski
Jordan Mendez
Julian Padilla
Jessica Cook
Kate Hicks
Sara Chacon
Kelly Wesaw
Deacon Tim & Lily Roberto
___
To become an Amanda Vernon Patron and receive exclusive rewards, signup at amandavernon.com/patron.