My "Blind Side"

I just saw "The Blind Side", and it blew me away. I'm always very impacted by movies and stories, but this one was particularly meaningful because it was a true story. It was inspiring, but real. It wasn't a perfect story, but it was a hopeful story. It showcased one success story, but didn't pretend that this wasn't the exception instead of the rule. It was solid. It was sassy. It was gritty. It was funny. It was REAL. And I think that's what I appreciated most about it.

Now I am filled with so many emotions. Joy - for the success of this young man and his new family. Sadness - for all those who won't have the same chances, and whose lives will be cut short. And more than anything else, it leaves me with an overwhelming sense of wanting to do and be more. What would it look like for me to practice radical hospitality like this family did? What kind of community could I be a part of where this would not only be possible but supported?

I'm in this place where I am constantly wanting to do more in so many ways, but feel limited by my current commitments. I deeply value the things that I am doing now, but it often seems so small and insignificant. At times like this my heart just cries out - to do something bigger and more meaningful. How do I become part of this neighborhood and really invest here? How do I practice radical community living? What do I do with my dream of buying and rehabbing a house? How can I learn more, grow more? How do I fulfill this cry of my heart?

Being confronted by my own inadequacies is hard when I'm so full of passion. But passion isn't enough. Change takes commitment and perseverance, time and energy. Although I know I fall short in so many ways, I take some comfort in a quote that's painted on the fence around the Allison Hill mural. It says: "Courage doesn't always roar - sometimes it's the quiet voice that says 'I will try again tomorrow.'" Give me that kind of courage, God. Amen.