TWAS A SUNNY DAY
Twas a sunny day…The cars were crawling like snails through the parking lot. There could have been a real chance to take a nap behind them as they navigated the speed bumps in front of me. Worse yet, one of the slow pokes was going to try to turn south from the parking lot driveway that was only about a hundred feet from a massively busy intersection, and against oncoming traffic and a six-lane road to boot.
My quick wit fueled by lack of patience when an accelerator is under my right foot had me scanning for an alternate route. “Bingo!” I thought to myself as I spotted one of the auxiliary parking lot lanes that led south to another minor side street that I could use to get further from the intersection to have a clear shot south against traffic, plus get out from behind the car that might still be there trying to pull out now.
While driving south through the strip mall parking lot – feeling pretty good about my clever move, I noticed the trash cans behind the stores. They’re actually dumpsters and they usually stink to high heaven… especially in the Arizona heat. My busy schedule and attitude ran out of me like the popping of a balloon.
I stopped before entering the side street just like the person I was trying to get around in a rush. I studied the frail tanned man in the floppy hat with his backpack slung over his shoulder as he dug through the dumpster I wouldn’t even drive by with my window down. Funny how priorities can change in the twinkling of an eye. I’ve noticed that it is usually the things that happen around us physically that bring about a change within us.
There are so many people in our world, we have the tendency to overlook the uniqueness of each and every soul they represent. I think many of us, me for sure, tend to see people in that manner and forget that every person alive has a story and each and every one of them has had some sort of heartbreak.
The homeless guy digging through the trash has a story too. Pretty sure he didn’t intend his story to include this chapter of homelessness and living out of trash cans… The people holding up traffic have a different story, better than the guy dumpster diving, but a less than perfect life to be sure.
When we consider strangers with a worldly perspective that sees just another person on an already overcrowded planet, we miss one of the greatest gifts God grants a soul – compassion. The greatest people who’ve ever lived had that divine ingredient. It isn’t the cold calloused people who are remembered with honor, it is the ones who care about all people and consider each soul special. Just like our Father who created their souls before the foundations of the universe.
May our busy schedules and attitudes run out of us like air from a popped balloon as we consider each soul on earth that carries a story of heartbreak and a hope of redemption…
Rick Dawson
Tuesday, August 6, 2013 @ 8:32 pm
I was that guy – a long time ago, in a state far, far away – and I might as well have been invisible when I was dumpster diving. No one saw me, and that’s OK – I don’t think I could have taken on another ounce of shame at that point in my life, but you wouldn’t have known it to look in my eyes. Very few people did back there and then.
I know I can’t save anyone from what I went through, and I can’t always help everyone I see in distress – hard lessons to learn – but where I can help, I do.
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 12:15 pm
Your colorful life is the things that books are made of and things used by God to help others. Redemption is sweet, brother. I know you have a heart of gold to go along with that rainbow of a life. Thanks for adding so much color and wisdom. You never cease to amaze me, Rick.
Dan Erickson
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 5:34 am
Sometimes the people in the cars holding up traffic have lived through hard times, too. I feel for the homeless man, but compassion needs to run the gamut. Sometimes, maybe even more, even the rich man needs compassion, too.
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 12:16 pm
Amen, Dan. Who are without compassion? Thought provoking words. Thanks, Dan.
Michael Holmes
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 8:39 am
Selah Dan. Selah 🙂
bill (cycleguy)
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 7:06 am
I have ashamedly driven way too fast past many “dumpster divers” in my race through life. I am thinking of just yesterday as I left the CCU area with a family and one lady walked among us who was crying. I had a nudge to offer to pray for her but I didn’t listen cuz i was with another family. I kick myself now. “Open my eyes Lord.”
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 12:25 pm
The fact that you see it and contemplate it thoroughly is an encouraging sign, Bill. You get pulled in so many ways that it’s tough to be able to think that fast on your feet or seat, but you’ll be ready for the next one… kinda like training for a bike race isn’t it? Thanks for always sharing your heart with openness, Bill. It opens the hearts of all of us. Thanks, brother.
Rachael
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 9:34 am
I am praying God stops me in my tracks like that today! I love all things that share peoples stories: listening to people, movies like “The Way” that tell people’s stories and books that give testimonies! Thanks for sharing this and for the reminder that we could all use a lot more compassion for others in our lives!
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 12:27 pm
Yeah, those are great take aways in “The Way” stories. I think we need to remind one another often, that in itself is a gift from God. Thanks for your part in the fellowship process! Thanks Rachael.
Lisa notes
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 9:58 am
Good eye, Floyd. You actually “saw” the man. He made an impression on you. He lives on here. Now we’re all called to be compassionate to the men we see in the dumpsters too, whatever those dumpsters may look like. Sometimes they make take the appearance of a BMW or 2-story house instead of a tin can. Thanks for the reminder to be compassionate. Always appreciated!
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 12:29 pm
I think we’re on the same page today, Lisa. Thanks for the support and being mindful of the need of compassion and non-judgemental eyes and hearts. Good call on the “look” of those in need. The ones who live in more comfort are often the farthest from the Truth. Thanks for the reminder, Lisa.
David Rupert
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 10:17 am
I am being convicted on my attitude toward Illegal aliens right now. I have confused their law-breaking with how God sees them. I am not translating that into any societal reaction, but a personal one. Compassion. Love. Christ-likeness.
Betty Jo
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 10:58 am
Hi David, We don’t know each other but your comment touched me deeply. My son and family work with refugee families in Charlotte, NC, an organization called One7. I used to have an awful attitude toward illegal aliens, not seeing them as God sees them, until God convicted me through looking into the eyes, and receiving the hugs, of some of the children my son works to help. It took the children of the illegals to teach me compassion and for that I’ll be forever grateful. Wrapped with you in Him
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 12:45 pm
Thanks so much for responding to this difficult subject, Betty Jo. The Old Testament is filled with depictions of how we’re to treat aliens, yet our society and church jaded our perception of them, myself included. I wonder what this country would look like if we would have had a more compassionate outlook from the onset? I can tell you if I were them I’d be doing all I could for my family as well. Thanks, Betty Jo.
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 12:34 pm
I’m with you, David. I wrote a post that I haven’t published yet about that very issue. I used to have more of an indifferent attitude about the whole thing. Now when I see men standing in line to work to feed their family even in Arizona summer heat instead of the government hand out line, I’ve reconsidered my approach. If I were them would I do any different? I have to admit, I’d do whatever it took to care for my family in the best way possible. Amazing how the world changes when we begin to see others from the perspective of inside their shoes. I respect and admire the honesty, David. Thanks.
Betty Jo
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 5:50 pm
If/when the Lord leads Floyd, please publish the post you are referring to.
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 6:33 pm
Okay. I’ll post it next week, Betty Jo. It might bring some disagreements, but we’re all mature enough to discuss it with the heart of our Father.
Betty Jo
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 10:50 am
It’s great to find your blog Floyd from Arkansas. I found your link at Hazel’s. My first visit and I’m already in love with your writing style. This is an awesome, thought provoking post. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Before this week is over, I’m going to ask someone, “What’s your story?”
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 12:42 pm
I’m honored to have you drop by, Betty Jo! As a native of Arkansas I say a hardy “Welcome!” We all get in a hurry until our Father pops the balloon to allow us to see this world through His eyes of compassion. Thanks for stopping and adding your wisdom, Betty Jo.
Mia
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 12:46 pm
Dear Floyd
What a heartbreaking, great post!! My sister-in-law and us have been talking just now-now about how 30% of South Africans have terrible food shortage. They would feast on the old, stale bread crumbs we throw away. But what breaks my heart is how the evil one uses the poorest of the poor in our country to steal,,kill and destroy. There is a new tendency amongst a great amount of South Africa’s poor who look to the government to provide in their needs. Just today we heard over the news of how people were throwing chemical, portable toilets on the high-way of one of our cities, because they don’t want free chemicals toilets; they want free, flush toilets. They burn down libraries because they don’t like the way a municipality they voted for is handling their village’s matters. This is what is happening in my beautiful country who has just exchanged one kind of apartheid for another! This time it is just not a law. I am not cynical, but it confirms how power in the hands of humans corrupt; the greater and the power, the greater the corruption! Please feel free to disagree.
Much love XX
Mia
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 1:01 pm
I could never disagree with that! Every people and government in the history of the world that hasn’t put God first fails! When people miss out on the gratification and gift of work they become less than what God has planned. Adam was still without sin when he was responsible to “work” the garden. It was a gift from God. The curse was to work by the sweat of his brow and have to tarry with weeds.
The enlightenment of man can’t fix problems, them relying on themselves is the problem! The money spent on government items paid for by taxpayer money can’t begin to do what free enterprise can do in the heart of free people! The people in your country and mine that believe they can trade freedom for security don’t realize they’re already slaves… Like the great lion born in captivity that has been robbed of his instinct… The world is the same everywhere for the heart of man is the same regardless of where he goes… This world needs Christ!
Dolly@Soulstops
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 12:58 pm
Floyd,
Yes, we need to stop and see each person with God’s compassion, and you’re right we don’t know what the homeless person’s story is…thanks for the reminder…I just finished reading The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and at the end, she talks about her parents and how they became homeless and why they chose to be homeless…it is an interesting and sad story, and shows how complicated the issue is…Thanks 🙂
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 1:04 pm
We all need a reminder I think. I know this was my reminder that day. Interesting how God can use our tendencies, like always being in a hurry, to make His point in our hearts. We’re all in this together… regardless where we spend the night. Thanks, Dolly.
tcavey
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 1:32 pm
Great post, Floyd, a tear jerker.
Nothing more I can add here.
Keep up the good work!
We need to be reminded to stop, look, listen and love.
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 6:28 pm
Thanks, TC. We all need to be reminded… seems we’re always on the same page. Glad to share it with you.
Michael Holmes
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 8:40 am
Same way I feel TC. I’m just scrolling through replying to comments. Floyd hit it on the head.
Betty Draper
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 3:13 pm
A few years ago I got invited to share at a ladies gathering in Ca. I made a comment about loving the weather there and if I ever had to be homeless this would be the place to do it. Unbeknownst to me a homeless woman was sitting right across from me. I had ask the hostess if she knew of someone coming who needed some encouragement and she mention her but not that she was homeless. I was giving away a few of the “courage” pendants and gave one to her. She and her husband lived in their car. Talk about feeling very bad when I found this out later. She actually connected with me after she moved to Florida, still homeless. Every once in a while I hear from her, she is doing better, her husband is in prison for drugs. A church operated half way house helped her get some schooling and a job. Being homeless could happen to any of us because those that are don’t wake up one day and decide to be homeless. Each has a story of the process that took them there usually some bad choices and even some due to death of a job, family, respect, or sort of things. It takes courage to approach a homeless person since there those who are out to scam others. I like the idea of just asking them their story, how did they get there and trust the Holy Spirit to tell us if we are the one to help them. There go I…and we all said amen
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 6:32 pm
Oh man. Amen is right, Betty. May we spend our compassion on the ones God has set before us. I’m not surprised and am encouraged that you’ve befriended the lady. I know our Father is using you in profound ways in all aspects of your life. Powerful story, Betty. There go i… indeed. Thank you very much.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 6:15 pm
This is a convicting post, Floyd. How often have I averted my eyes from a homeless person, or maybe the guy holding a tattered sign at the exit ramp of a highway. Sometimes I roll down my window and give money, and other times, I’m more afraid of stalling traffic and just drive right by. There was a guy in our neighborhood, whom I knew was not homeless, but who always looked unkempt and dissheveled, and, frankly, averted *his* eyes from us whenever we passed him on the sidewalk. But this time, I listened to God’s prompting and said hello. Each time we’d pass he would slow a little, maybe nod, and finally he said hello too. Eventually he would stop and actually say a few sentences. I found out exactly where he lived and that his first name was Dave, and I sent him a card in the mail. He lived about a block and a half away, and we began a correspondence. He’d send me little notes, and he sent my daughter stuffed animals in the mail. I sent him letters and Christmas newsletters which witnessed about the Lord. He wrote back, and said it was good to think about God. When we moved away from the old neighborhood, Uncle Dave (as we had come to call him) sent Sheridan $20 to buy a Christmas ornament and a potted plant for my husband, who’d had a heart attack. That time, I was late with my thank you note. I finally sent it, and didnt’ hear back for months, until I got a letter from a man with the same last name as Dave. It was his brother, who lived out of town. Dave had died of an unexpected, massive stroke. He said that his brother had had some kind of mental breakdown earlier in his life, which left him more or less housebound and socially awkward. I can’t tell you how much it touched me to know his story and to thank God for helping me overcome my selfishness that time. You’re so right, Floyd: Everyone has a story. We can’t possibly know the hea”rtbreak that abounds, and as the protagonist Atticus Finch said (to paraphrase): You can’t really know anyone until you walk in his shoes.” It sure beats walking past him, doesn’t it?
Blessings for sharing your story so faithfully, Floyd. YOu are making such a difference here!
Fondly,
Lynn
Floyd
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 6:38 pm
That brings moisture to my eyes, Lynn. God bless you for reaching out to Uncle Dave. You and your family showed him the essence of our Father…That’s exactly what we’re called to do! How wonderful to share your life and step out of your comfort zone, and how amazing is our Father for blessing you and your family through it. What a wonderful witness, Lynn. To make a difference in a soul that God sets before us… Well done, sister. What a heart warming and bitter/sweet story. I think you’ll get to introduce me to Uncle Dave when we reach the other side. Thanks for sharing that, Lynn. Heart moving.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 6:43 pm
Thanks for your generous words, Floyd. Oh my yes, we will have a glory party with Uncle DAve. It’s my prayer that he received the Lord.
Floyd
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 7:15 am
You’re welcome and I’m looking forward to it.
Lincoln Parks
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 @ 6:56 pm
Compassion is absolutely a God thing that he has birthed in us. I unfortunately am one of the ones that don’t hardly do anything to help. I know we can’t help everyone but God always tugs on my heart when I don’t. So I know I need to do more in that area of compassion. Don’t get me wrong, I do help in many ways, but I need to help in ALL.
Floyd
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 7:18 am
I’m with you, Lincoln. We all need the compassion first and then the discipline to follow up. How many of us can say we’re doing all we can? The Light is shining on all of us to do more. Thanks for your honesty and driving the point deeper into my heart. Thanks, Lincoln.
Michael Holmes
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 8:41 am
This is a reall compassionate post Floyd. This really makes you question what matters.
Floyd
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 10:24 am
Thanks, Mike. I have to say I get so much from everyone else’s takes and perspectives. It truly does bring the subject to a deeper understanding. And thanks for being part of that fellowship, Mike. I truly appreciate it.
Audra Krell
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 10:42 am
Floyd I love your words about how the man didn’t intend for his story to involve being homeless. I’ve often said that no one dreams about growing up to be homeless, to abandon their family, turn to a life of crime or to be relationally bankrupt. That helps me to have compassion for all of God’s people, which isn’t easy to do, especially when we are the ones afflicted by people’s actions. But nonetheless I believe that all of God’s creations are good hearted, good willed people. We all get sideways once in a while.
Our prayer can be that all of us would use the circumstances God gives us, for His glory. That even a dumpster diver in the brutal AZ heat would live a life pleasing to God and demonstrating that He is good all the time.
Floyd
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 5:31 pm
Great call, Audra. May we all use our circumstances to shine His light to this world. I know you have great compassion for all of His creation, it shows in your actions. Thanks for sharing your heart and passions with compassion on His children. And thanks for spreading that peace here as well, Audra.
Hazel Moon
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 1:42 pm
Thanks for the gret post and one to cause us to consider each and every one of those we meet. Every one has a story to tell – – the homeless and those more fortunate. Even if we are not able to stop and pray or give, we can send up a prayer that God will provide and minister to that person.
Floyd
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 5:43 pm
Excellent perspective, Hazel. Probably the most important thing we can do with the compassion from our Father is to send up a prayer for His grace and mercy. Great wisdom! You always seem to pick out the core of a topic! Thanks, Hazel.
Mike
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 3:58 pm
You know how to cut a fella! You are so right about how we get in a hurry living our lives, and tend to over look God’s children who don’t seem to be living to our standards. It makes me ashamed when I find myself judging someone like that without any of the facts that got them to that place. Very good post, Floyd!
Floyd
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 5:45 pm
You’re not alone, Mike! It really did take me going in a place and direction I’d never gone before in order for God to get my attention. It’s a slow process, but we’re beginning to see the people and souls before the actions… Thanks, Mike. I always appreciate your take and honesty, brother.
Ngina Otiende
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 4:16 pm
Floyd I lived out some of the things you’ve shared here today. And I didn’t do too well. I ignored that gentle prompting in my heart to turn back and talk to homeless family. Instead I went home.
Conviction won and i drove back again. I was reminded once again that sometimes compassion is about presence. you might not have much but God never requires that we give what you don’t have – being there, listening, talking can make a difference. At the very least it blesses and stretches you the giver.
I’ve loved that discussion btw Betty Jo, David, looking forward to your post.
Floyd
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 5:49 pm
I can’t think of too many people whose conscious would get the best of them and actually drag them back to do the will of our Father. That speaks volumes! You’re right, it’s not about what we have, it’s about us having compassion and having the assent of our will to act on it. That’s huge, Ngina. Bless your heart, sister! Thanks for sharing your contagious passion and heart here, Ngina. You always bring a smile to my face.
Jennifer Dougan
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 5:20 pm
Hey Floyd,
Hmm, the man by the dumpster makes me think of the book “The Glass Castle.” Have you read it? So fascinating. Grab that one some week, and let me know what you think.
Re your comment on my post “When You’re at an Impasse in a Decision,” decades to learn this? Yes, us too, I’m afraid. It’s hard some days, huh? But so worth it.
Thanks for honesty here, and the tip.
Jennifer Dougan
http://www.jenniferdougan.com
Floyd
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 5:53 pm
I’ve never read “The Glass Castle,” but I’ll pick it up. You have probably already picked up the wisdom that it’s taken me decades to learn! I can tell from your words… You’re welcome and thanks, Jennifer.
Jillie
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 11:49 am
Hi Floyd—Great post here today! And great comments as well. Like this recommendation to read “The Glass Castle”. I read it two summers ago, and declared it my favourite read of that year! Do try to find the time to read it. It’s really good!
Your post reminds me of a similar incident I had a few years back–one that still haunts my conscience today. I was with my Aunt in Toronto to see ‘The Gaithers’ perform. Here we were all ‘spiritual’ in our pursuit of ‘Christian entertainment’ that evening, when several homeless people sat outside the Rogers Centre, hands outstretches for change, or a sandwich, or a drink…and all us ‘Christians’ filed on by in our line-up, ignoring them. I thought about them all evening, and felt like such a hypocrite! I can only pray I never do that again.
Floyd
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 12:25 pm
How I appreciate your heart, Jillie. You’re so real and down to earth. That’s what we’re all called to be and when one of us face our truths it helps others do the same. It’s amazing how God will use that to change you forever and even use it to affect the lives of me and others to help remind us that each encounter is an opportunity to show the love of our Father. I will read The Glass Castle… How could I not? Thanks for adding your touch here, Jillie. I so respect your comments and perspective.
Barb Raveling
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 6:32 pm
Great post, Floyd, and wonderful message. To see each person as an individual through eyes of love – a wonderful goal.
Floyd
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 11:36 am
It’s not an easy goal, but staying focused on the heart of God within us makes it attainable. Glad to share the common goal with you and all the others. Thanks, Barb.
Dave Arnold
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 9:03 pm
Great post Floyd! Good writing & made me think of how I need to see
people through the eyes of Christ. Looking forward to more of your posts.
Floyd
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 11:49 am
Thanks, Dave. This is my reminder to me from Above to get and keep my priorities in line. I appreciate your time and take as always, brother.
Caleb Suko
Thursday, August 8, 2013 @ 11:17 pm
Great story Floyd! It is significant how God can change our priorities so quickly! I’m pretty sure those circumstances to happen accidently, God providentially provides them to get us back on track!
Floyd
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 12:04 pm
Amen, Caleb! No such thing as coincidences, I like that, “God providentially provides.” Wise words, brother. Couldn’t agree more. Thanks for stopping in, Caleb. You are appreciated, brother.
Betty Jo
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 5:11 am
Wrote about your blog on mine today Floyd. Hope that was okay.
Floyd
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 12:05 pm
I’m honored, Betty Jo! Gotta go check it out! Thanks for the heads up.
Joanne Norton
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 2:24 pm
Yes, seeing where people “live” and how they make it through life, can be a challenging aspect from our God-focused heart. Trying and trying, again and again. That’s all I can do.
Going to a murder site in about 1/2 hour, will be with friends, but will see so many kids and adults who have walked through that phase of life again and again. Twice in that apt area just this week. It’s a heart-breaking/aching day for me. Want to hold and hug so many..
Floyd
Friday, August 9, 2013 @ 3:34 pm
I’m grieving with you, Joanne. I know what a heart you have for the lost and what your ministry takes out of you. May God fill you with strength and love to comfort and help change the hearts and minds of those lost, hurting, and dying in harms way at home in our streets… I’m deeply grieved too. I’m praying for you and your team, Joanne.
~Karrilee~
Saturday, August 10, 2013 @ 10:18 am
Floyd,
I loved this post… I’m gonna have to subscribe here! I keep loving your writing whenever I stumble upon it! In fact, this post is featured as one of my favorite finds this week for my Weekend Recap!
Eyes wide open…
~Karrilee~
Floyd
Saturday, August 10, 2013 @ 11:06 am
Honored to have you here, Karrilee. Thanks for the kind words and the link up. Just caught your video of “Bob The Street Cat,” he is my new favorite feline!
Diane
Monday, August 12, 2013 @ 2:27 pm
60 comments?! Wow…for whatever it’s worth, here’s 61:
I’ve so missed you, Floyd. To read this, I have tears in my eyes. It’s like coming home. To a familiar friend, whose heart is so special; who writes in a manner that digs into the soul and causes both joy and tears at the same time.
A beautiful post, my friend. Just beautiful!
Floyd
Monday, August 12, 2013 @ 4:04 pm
I can’t tell you how much I’ve missed your kind heart and wisdom, Diane. When I read your words that reveal you’re heart, it’s like a breath of fresh air blows through and cleans the corners of my heart. What a blessing you are to all of us, sister. Thanks for stopping by again. You are missed!
Loren Pinilis
Tuesday, August 20, 2013 @ 6:06 am
I sometimes just like to people-watch at a crowded place. It doesn’t have to be homeless people or others who “stick out” – but just thinking that everyone that passes me has a story. Has triumphs. Has heartbreaks. Has pain. And everyone is made in the image of God, too.
Floyd
Tuesday, August 20, 2013 @ 11:33 am
Powerful summary, Loren. You nailed it, brother. We all have a story and it starts with our Father knitting us together in our mother’s wombs… Thanks, man.