Lt. Robert Jones Headquarters Battalion Chaplain
We live in a day and time when anyone who is truly blessed would probably know it. Our awareness of the good things that have happened to us serve as a divine reminder that Heaven has a voice, miracles are real and God watches it all. We can actually categorize our theological opinion and our very strong spiritual feelings in any number of ways. Some persons might prefer the fact that ‘‘luck” has happened and it has been the good kind. Still a few more might feel very strongly that they have been ‘‘fortunate” and the good that results was as such. Even a few others might believe that what has happened was in the hands of fate. Rather than argue or debate, let’s look closer at the beauty of being truly blessed.
The Dictionary of Judaism in the Biblical Period states that, ‘‘...the word blessing...denotes a state of happiness. Blessing has to do with relationships...” Within this context we find a central truth that transcends the moment. We find a blessing when we find relationship. Being in a relationship in the multiplicity of ways relationships come about, can actually influence and impact our lives for the better and for the worse. Let’s focus on the better, because we all know when things are at their worst. In a positive relationship, we find several variables and several ‘‘vulnerables.”
The variables are most obviously the things in the other person that I cannot control and vice versa. The variables are most significant, when the small things and the seemingly insignificant things really do matter the most. I get an unexpected birthday card. I receive an unanticipated Bravo Zulu for an effort put forth that I thought was well within the realm of ‘‘just doing my job.” I get a great big hug and an even bigger kiss when least expected. Quite the reverse, we find the ‘‘vulnerables” in life.
Though not a quality grammatical word, the intent in the meaning pervades. The vulnerables find me striving to find a true friend when times are hard and things are not going so well for me. The vulnerables find me going out on a date or an evening with someone that I just met but have a really good feeling about. The vibes are good. On the opposite side, the vulnerables find me in the epicenter of the perfect storm. Instead of breaking bread and having the benefit of a good evening, I am seated across from a mean-spirited personality type, with a voracious appetite for debate, arguing and obtrusive thinking.
All I wanted to do was to enjoy some pleasant conversation with a person of wonderful character and very fine social graces. Whichever condition, circumstance or situation we find ourselves in the midst of, we are truly blessed in relationship with others. I am vulnerable when I try again and I cannot control the variables. Relationships take time, effort and a heart full of love. We press on, we share, we care and we grow. God knows all about it. What a chance worth taking.
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