Many people feel that an old American Indian prayer makes a useful point—one that will bless those who practice its message: "Great Spirit, grant that I might not criticize my neighbor until I have walked a mile in his moccasins.
Light glancing across a weathered shutter or an ancient wall; a winter sunset; the color-explosion of neon lights coming on at dusk in a modern city; the form of a dry twig; the style of a pair of shoes; a witty response that relieves a gloomy remark; an intriguingly wrapped gift; the subtle colors of faded cloth; rain washing grime from a window.
When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, we are told, shepherds were inspired by a heavenly messenger to perceive that the event was of vital importance to all the world.
