Sarah was a very unhappy little girl. She complained to her mother that she was powerless and that no one paid any attention to her. She might as well just run away because no one would notice. Her mother listened patiently and then asked Sarah if she really wanted to change her world and make a difference. “Yes!” Sarah said, with a great deal of enthusiasm. “Good!” replied her mother. “Go tell your sister you’re sorry for the argument you had this morning!”

God does not share His love with just the rich and famous. Everyone is given a share of the Holy Spirit who gives us the ability to change our world. We may have visions of grandeur and seek acclaim for the wonders we perform. But to the people who love us, all the glory in the world means nothing. They love us just as we are. Everything we say and do makes a world of difference to them.

Forgiveness is powerful. In a single moment, we can lift someone’s guilt, restore and renew a relationship, and recognize that everyone makes mistakes. When we are forgiven, we feel the weight of the world lifting off our shoulders. Things are right again and we can move forward, learning a valuable lesson about virtue, grace and love. It may be a small step, but it goes a long way in making a difference in our lives and in the lives of those we love.

~James Gaffney, © 2009 Karides Lic. to Pilot Bulletins