Crisis and Character

Yesterday:

Bacon roll time at Men’s Shed… a buzz of conversation (who says that men don’t talk?!)… the usual unrepeatable banter… Reg’s mankini (with bells on – it’s a Christmas one, you know)… Richard’s leopard-skin thong (it’s not been worn recently)…

Graham and Albert were chatting. Albert’s wife passed away ten weeks ago; Graham lost his wife to cancer ten years ago. They were sharing their experiences with kindness and empathy… sadnesses, bereavement, aloneness, meaningful little things. They’d experienced crisis; they showed character.

Broadcaster and author Fearne Cotton’s ‘Happy’… discusses mental health and describes her battle with depression:

Even moments that feel like tragic mistakes can be thrown some gratitude as they would have taught you at least one thing about yourself. Maybe those moments have taught you not to judge others so much. Maybe they’ve shown you how strong you can be when needed. Maybe they’ve introduced you to a whole new side of life.’

Fearne’s character has developed through crises.

Watching Kate, Princess of Wales, on the news… says she’s completed her chemotherapy treatment:

‘William and I are so grateful for the support we have received and have drawn great strength from all those who are helping us at this time. Everyone’s kindness, empathy and compassion has been truly humbling.

‘To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey – I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light, so let that light shine bright.’

Kate’s character tested, revealed, developed through crisis.

This morning’s Bible reading… Encouragement? God brings good through bad? Suffering leads to character?

The picture of ‘the good shepherd’ is familiar. Ezekiel describes bad shepherds:

‘You did not take care of the flock. You have not strengthened the weak or healed the sick or bound up the injured. You have not brought back the strays or searched for the lost…’

When crisis came they displayed their character – just looking after themselves.

Musing… lessons on crisis and character… Albert and Graham, Fearne and Kate… Ezekiel’s cautionary tale.