the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.’ (1 Sam 16:7)
Yet how frequently do we judge, often harshly, based upon how someone looks. In that way, we are like infants, fascinated by wrapping paper, noises and bright lights. I have been stunned and humbled by a comment from someone of whom I wouldn’t have thought it possible – maybe you have too? Yet, in our good moments, we’re able to encourage the young person who may be down or acting out – looking past the externals. There are also the young people who seem to be happy, healthy and thriving, but their reality can be more painful, as this video shows.
We owe it to our young people to teach them to look past the externals to glimpse a fuller reality of the people in their lives. One powerful way that we do this is by modelling – by not treating all of the young people in our care the same. Because of their differences, to treat all young people the same would be manifestly unfair. This beautifully explored by De La Salle in this reflection
Have a great week!
Patrick
livedgospel 