Article August 9, 1999 Issue

BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOR

Cathryn Obey Anderson

Even the everyday chores and tasks that sometimes seem dull and uneventful can be opportunities to be a good neighbor. One Sunday afternoon my husband and I needed to go to the grocery store. As we were shopping, I noticed a constant noise in the background. A small child was whining and crying profusely. When I was at the salad bar, I saw a dad with two girls, and one of his girls was the child who was crying. She was very upset and wanted to go home because she wanted her mom. My first thoughts were not so kind. But, thank goodness, a moment later I realized I could help—I could pray about this. As I observed the situation, I felt compassion for the dad and the two children.

I then walked away from what was going on and went to an area nearby where I could be alone. I said to God, "We need You right now. We need to know and feel Your presence and Your power with us." Then sweet thoughts came to me. One was: "This is Your happy and good child, God. You give her everything that she can possibly need to be happy and content. You are her Father-Mother, God." I felt the presence and power of divine Love right with us then and there. I was at peace.

We finished our shopping and went to the cash register to check out. I then noticed that for the first time since we had entered the store, it was quiet. There was no more crying. The family came past us to get ready to check out, too, and all three of them looked so happy. I was very grateful for this simple proof of God's love, care, and power.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
Q A
August 9, 1999
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit