Reflection

“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep, loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.” –Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

Prayer

Transforming God,

We have witnessed your transforming power in the lives of people we know. People who have suffered much, and yet somehow learned to find a way through their pain to growth and even greater compassion. As we marvel at this mystery, we invite you to soften our own hearts so that we, too, can process our pain in ways that are healthy and that make us more capable to show compassion to others. Amazed by the power of your grace, we pray. Amen.

Call to Action

Where in my life can I be more deliberate in working through the hurts I’ve experienced? Seek the counsel of a trusted friend so that I might grow by addressing a wound I’ve neglected.