From here and there, at least in part.

On the outside it may appear that my life has been a series of disjointed decisions, un-rooted locations and fickle changes of mind. But one step closer reveals a story of true community and understanding what it means to live in that community. I might not always do it well, I know I don’t, but this is what I have found to be true: accepting that, within your relationships, there is a joint destiny – a shared interest in day to day events and the success of vision – makes serving and loving and being committed a rather freeing experience.

Take a look at those closest to you. Imagine tomorrow with those same people.

I had a dream a few years ago that I think paints this picture well. In the dream I was in heaven. Walking down a long aisle towards the Throne with throngs of people on either side of me. During my journey down the aisle I glanced to my left and there, in the crowd, was a friend. Our eyes caught and in that moment we shared the deepest gratitude between each other. We knew that our lives had been lived together all in preparation for that moment, the moment after this life and at the beginning of eternity.

The shared destiny of those around us is what connects us in community. Whether we live in dorms full of like-minded people, or on our own. Whether we have attended the same church since birth, or gather with friends more casually. Whether we work in ministry, or serve elsewhere, each person has a connection and each connection grows stronger as we submit to the fact that we are part of the journey for those around us.

There is a greeting in Nepal and India, Namaste. As a salutation it means I bow (reverentially) to you. It has also been translated, The light in me sees the light in you.  I love what comes from meditation on this one word. Dwelling within those around us is a Living Spirit, the same in ourselves, and bowing to this, placing them above ourselves, sharing in the triumphs and struggles of life, brings our relationship with them to a new level. No longer are they just co-workers or roommates or classmates. They are light on this Earth and we can honor their presence here as a created being, full of life, love and potential.

Our Joint Destiny’s may be easy to define – perhaps within a project that serves to improve the lives of others or bring awareness or just living life together – or it may be harder to grasp, just a presence in space and time and that doesn’t appear to have meaning today, but is important for the journey. Either way, let us be aware of our joint destiny and serve each other, helping those around us reach their best.