“I’m a child of God, and being a child of God, I’m essential, and no one has the right to limit, or the power to limit, my ability to be somebody.”
Ruby Sales
“What would our world look like if everyone believed and were given the ability to be somebody?” Please spend a bit of time with that question. Which then leads to the next question, “Does our inability to believe we are essential lead us to think of others as inessential and treat them as less than?” I find it important to ask myself those questions and then how do I live the answers to those questions? Sorry but I actually asked three questions. 😁
8 Comments
Tom Dills
Very interesting points, Monte. I don’t feel like I have a concern about my own essentialness but am acutely aware that many lack that level of confidence. As a result I try to treat everyone I come in contact with as essential in some way, whether it is expressing appreciation for their efforts or recognizing their accomplishment.
Kathy & I have adopted a few things we think or say when encountering someone who is struggling or looks or seems different, such as (1) everyone is doing their best, and (2) everyone is someone’s kid. I think recognizing everyone as essential to someone else is a first, albeit small, step.
Monte Stevens
Thanks for leaving you thoughts and experience on these questions. Yes, on the recognition that all are essential and have the same rights as all of us is a great first step.
Faye
People want to be acknowledged; make eye contact, smile, say hello, say thank you if someone holds a door for you. These small gestures can make a difference.
Monte Stevens
In my own life there have been those times when I thought I was above others or below others it’s my judging when I don’t need to. I also believe there are people who have almost nothing because the environment and culture they live in suppresses them. They live a life that keeps them inessential. Please have a great day and remind me again where in South Carolina you live in now.
Faye
I live in Fort Mill, SC 🙂
Monte Stevens
Kool, thank you. Hope it all works for you.
Mark
I suppose I really don’t know what it means to “be somebody” anymore. Is it a factor based on wealth, fame, power, love, influence, connection, etc? Without knowing, I just kinda be me and wing it. 🙂
Monte Stevens
So grateful “there is no one alive who is Youer than You,” Mark. Keep winging it!