Uncomfortable Faces of Humanity

I cried while watching "60 Minutes."

This is not a normal Sunday night occurrence. I caught a glimpse of a story where the homeless were being abused--beaten (and a couple even killed) by groups of teenagers wielding baseball bats. Apparently, this is becoming more commonplace in cities across the country. Many claim to have been inspired by a film series called "Bum Fights," where homeless people are invited to perform stunts (primarily acts of self-abuse or abuse to one another) for food or a couple of dollars. I was sickened. What are we doing to our selves?

I use the term "we" because I cannot claim complete innocence. No, I have never physically abused a homeless person. I have, however, on countless occasions looked beyond or ignored their presence. Although I have not given it thought in this regard, I have successfully stripped them of their worth and dignity by refusing to acknowledge their humanity. In the face of their perceived desperation, I have pretended that they simply do not exist. Rather than engaging my discomfort for their plight, I have turned away and continued with my business. I have erased the pictures of their hungry eyes from my conscious eyes and have gone happily to lunch.

I have assembled lunches for the Night Ministry, donated clothing to multiple charities for the homeless and have been an advocate for better housing and shelters; yet, my deeds remain safe and impersonal.

The tears on the couch in my living room serve no one. My sympathy for those who find themselves in dire circumstances will not lift them out of the mire. My financial contributions will help, but one could argue that it is treating the symptom rather than the cause.

I must face my own hypocrisy. I may speak of the power of love, but if I truly believe it, I must use it for my own transformation.

Allow me to see the humanity in others.
Allow me to feel the humanity of others.

He has experienced love, just like me.
She has experienced hurt, just like me.
He has experienced heartache, just like me.
She has experienced joy, just like me.
He has laughed, just like me.
They have experienced discrimination, just like me.

Today, I will look them in the eyes. Today, I will see them as people. Today, I will see them as filled with power and possibility. Today, I will see them as free. Today, I will say "Good Morning" and I will mean it. Today, I will them for their names. Today, I will say a prayer for them and me. Today, I will see them as me.

I see the humanity in others.
I feel the humanity in others.

What's heart got to do with it? EVERYTHING.