Be the Parade

I was on a run when I chanced upon this man walking. I screeched to a stop.
"You are adorable!" I said.
"I had to," he said laughing, "I'm Irish. but I won't be going to the parade today. You know, too hard on me at my age." (The St. Patrick's Day parade in Charlotte was Saturday morn.)
"Awwww," I said, "Well you ARE the parade!"
"That I am," he agreed, smiling.
I showed him his photo, which evinced another chuckle, and was on my way again.

I think Patrick can teach us all a very important lesson. So often, when we can't do all we should do, we don't do anything at all. We criticize and complain and find fault with those who manage to do something, but fall short...while we don't lift a finger to help. I have never been more aware of this than since I have become a sidewalk counselor in front of abortion clinics. I can't tell you how many times when I post a blog I get notes or comments  criticizing the sidewalk counseling efforts to save babies. Many are from people who have done nothing to help these mothers in crisis. You would be amazed at the number of comments suggesting that the results of saving babies results in more government dependency and poverty, thus it would be better just to kill them. I certainly didn't know before I started with cities4life how many resources are available -- private resources, not funded by government but by caring people (largely Christian!). The services do not stop after the mother makes the choice for life. There are numerous agencies that teach skills in parenting, finances, work and job skills, etc. to help these women. Any one of these agencies would gladly take volunteers, or donations. These folks who are complaining aren't volunteering or donating...they are just blasting the people who may be taking step one and two, but haven't the energy or resources to do step three.

One step is better than none. If you can't go to the big parade, be a little parade all unto yourself. Just like my new, sweet, Irish friend, Patrick.

For more information, go to cities4life.org .
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Zechariah 4:10 

For whoever has despised the day of small things shall rejoice, and shall see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. “These seven are the eyes of the Lord, which range through the whole earth.”

Luke 16:10 

“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.