From Charlie Gray

I enjoy words. They are the components of our conversations and our conversations are the components of our relationships. Hence, words are important. A word for today is "consideration". Once we allow our faith to infiltrate our conversations, words can take on new meanings and maybe even a divine effectiveness. In that light, "consideration" can become a meaningful companion with "compassion".

It’s important that we exercise consideration in our interaction with others. For example, our son Joseph was working in the Capitol building on January 6, 2021. That was a terrifying day for me and his mom. Therefore, even the slightest mention of that day sparks deep emotional turmoil within our hearts. It’s not a political issue for us, it’s a personal life event we will hold forever. Peaceful protest is a right we should all embrace and support but considering what we went through as a family on that day frames our opinion of the incident.

In addition, Donna and I both are cancer survivors. Once that evil invades your life, your reaction is realigned. It becomes a "you" and "me" rather than "they" or "them". Consider the path that others have walked when conversations arise. Maybe there is a backstory to the attitudes and opinions expressed by others. We all have life experiences that frame our attitudes.

The 2nd chapter of Philippians shares a directive to "do nothing out of self ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others more important than yourself". Twenty four hour news channels and political rhetoric seek to justify doing just the opposite. Show consideration to all people. You don’t know where they have traveled. Mix consideration with compassion. It’s a divine recipe.