This past week, I was able to participate in an activity that is at first somewhat uncomfortable and certainly way outside of the social norms of modern society.
We dressed up in red smocks in the middle of New York City and asked people if we could pray with them.
Surprisingly, many people stopped even though they had no idea who we were.
In fact, there were times where a line was created because there were too many people wanting prayer.
Something was really impressed in my mind, people are hurting all around us and many just want someone to notice and take the time to talk, pray, or simply "be" alongside them.
Despite all the walls and defenses we create for ourselves, we all want help from others.
No matter how independent we are, we still crave that personal connection and love.
Our society teaches us to avoid that type of vulnerability; however, it is vulnerability that is often our salvation.
It is also often hard for us to look past our own problems and concerns and to really look at the needs, hurts, and lives of others who are all around us.
However, if we can learn to do this, we will not only help another individual, we will start to see transformation in our own lives.
I encourage you to try and practice this way of living this week.
Realize that what separates us as human beings is actually quite small.
No matter what our background, political views, religious beliefs, or cultural differences, we all share common dreams, hurt, fears, and need.
When we share our needs, joys, and pain with others, we are able to connect in a way that really helps understand the beauty of being human.
In a small way, it also helps us make the world a more peaceful and wonderful place to live.