Faith Through the Journey

One of the most irritating qualities we humans have is the tendency to brag. When is it bragging and when is it merely sharing an experience? I guess the threshold is crossed when we try to make an experience seem as though we are responsible for it, rather than merely being blessed to enjoy it.

Recently we have been very “blessed” to be able to travel to other parts of the country to experience not only cooler weather (and in Texas, getting out of state in August is always a blessing!), but also to see some famous athletes up close and to visit one of the most beautiful locations in the country. I know that I am personally VERY blessed to enjoy these things because of my husband’s employment, not through any of my own efforts. I’m grateful that he wants me to be with him! Sharing these experiences by either writing about them or verbally retelling them will hopefully bring someone else pleasure as well.

Interestingly enough, the Bible tells us in Romans 12:15 that we should “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and mourn with those who mourn.” When someone I care about experiences something they want to share with me, I am glad to read or listen to what they have to say. In that way, I share in their happiness and receive pleasure myself. In the same way, I hope that things I have to share bring enjoyment to a reader or listener. And for those of you who are willing to hear about my grandson or see the latest pictures or videos of him, I am profoundly grateful! One of the things I have heard at weddings is that when joys are shared, they are doubled, and when sorrows are shared, they are halved. Perhaps that explains why we are encouraged to share in both the joys and sorrows of one another. We can give and receive pleasure in the sharing, and demonstrate our caring for others.