How often do we see someone who we think has a perfect life?
Have you said to yourself, "I wish I had her life", or "how come she gets everything she wants"?
Often we feel angry when we think of what we consider the inequities of life, but how much more simple and serene life would be if we treated everyone with compassion.
In reality, no one has a perfect life.
Everyone encounters difficulties in their lives, and we often don't know what challenges others are facing.
The People Of Ukraine
Two weeks ago the people of Ukraine, a democratic country, were living their lives in much the same way as we live ours.
They were having coffee with friends, dropping their children off at school, planning birthday parties, going to work...........
Literally, overnight it was all torn away from them.
The coffee shops were closed, schools were bombed, homes were destroyed, and there was no more work.
Mothers were fleeing in the severe cold to other countries in order to protect their precious children.
The Sunflower
The sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine and it is a symbol of hope and compassion.
Yesterday when I was sourcing artwork for my shop I came across this sunflower painting by Vincent van Gogh from the 1800s.
Even the sunflower must withstand hardships.
A Life Of Compassion
Friday I spent the afternoon with my daughters and granddaughters. It was a beautiful 80 degree afternoon.
We sat out on the deck, the girls ran through the sprinkler, and we played badminton.
I thought about those people in Ukraine and how quickly our lives can change.
I don't think I will ever see a sunflower again without feeling a sense of compassion for others.
I have been as guilty as the next person when it comes to jumping to conclusions about the kinds of lives others live, so I have vowed to work harder at treating everyone I meet with more love, patience, tolerance, and care.
Think what a wonderful world it would be if we all treated each other with compassion.
In this world we live life can change for sure in an instant. Ukraine is a perfect example. A few weeks ago they were going about their lives and now they are fleeing for their lives. So sad. I love that the sunflower is their state flower. Sunflowers are so beautiful and also provide food for birds. I love that painting by Van Gogh. Have a great start to the new week. xoxo Kris
ReplyDeleteI didn't know the sunflower meant compassion. That is good to know. I know from past experience (and most do).. that life can change in an instant. It's very sad and scary when we see it happens to others.. and other countries. Marilyn
ReplyDeleteI join you in prayers for the people of Ukraine......
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, thoughtful post, Laura. I join you with prayers.
ReplyDeleteThis is such a beautiful post and a great reminder we never know what someone is going through too. It's really easy to put on a happy face and act like everything is ok. But it's very rare to find someone who isn't going through something. I've been amazed at the kindness and compassion the people of Ukraine have faced throughout this whole ordeal. They are an amazing lesson in courage under fire and grace. Big hugs, CoCo
ReplyDeleteBeautiful post, Laura. Compassion seems to be a lost art lately, and we'd be wise to practice it more frequently. What happened in Ukraine should be a lesson for all of us here - democracy is fragile, and can be taken from us in a moment. Praying for the brave people of Ukraine.
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