The many beauties of art is that it is a universal language. Regardless of age, race, sex, gender, socioeconomic status, religion, (dis)ability, etc. art unites people from all different backgrounds. Art fosters nuanced interpretations, thoughts, and ideas while simultaneously building bridges across shared life experiences. As a priest said during a recent homily, “we must focus on the unity amidst our diversity.” Like art, genuine kindness and love are unifying languages that speak across all walks of life. Something as little as a conversation, making eye contact, a high five, and a hug have the ability to make a lasting impact on the surrounding world. One of my favorite quotes is by Leo Buscaglia who said, “too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” Most of the time, what this world needs isn’t more money, but more love.
Love is responsible for the renewed spirits and spark of life at the Bell Building. It is love that turned society’s “outcasts” into dignified human beings. I was speaking with a co-worker who used to work in homeless outreach. Traveling around the city, he would look for people living under bridges, in abandoned buildings, and other areas that seem uninhabitable. I asked him how he would approach people living in these areas, and he said that it starts with showing care. Showing sincere compassion is the first step in helping people who are experiencing homelessness or people who experienced homelessness. From compassion comes trust and from trust comes relationships.
People–life–must never be abandoned.
I found this piece in a Detroit newspaper. I think it captures the beauty and history that lies in Detroit and in every person:
“If my people, who are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14 ASV). The last shall be first and the first shall be last. We are many parts, but we are all one body.
This is beautiful, Meredith. Thank you for your poetic words!
Meredith, it’s crazy that your post lines up so well with what the tap dancing man said!! (I forgot his name 🙁 ). The points you make about love, compassion and relationships fit in so well with everything we talked about this past week! I really appreciate your positivity, it’s always refreshing.
I agree, this was a great post! It sounds like the organization you are working with has a really strong impact on the community and yourself. I could see that even at the seminar this past week. I am excited to hear what is to come 😀