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I often meet kind people along my path. Their gentle and generous attitude toward me is something I have not earned.
They appear out of nowhere, like an old sage, a wolf, or a raven in a fairy tale. All that is asked of me is to accept their gift.
But “just” is not simple, because a person can irritate or even frighten. It feels like a test. Can I step past the form to recognize the essence?
And in moments of despair, I become more open, flexible, and receptive. Maybe the kind person was walking beside me all along, but I did not notice him.
When you are drowning, there is no time to reflect on whether it is a rope or the tail of a python. In the film 127 Hours, the man who survives drinks dirty water from a puddle with desperation. Germs, bacteria, parasites—none of that matters when the body has no H2O.
By the way, this is a great test of how mature your request really is. If I nitpick the color of a life ring, ask for a certificate of authenticity, and demand alternatives, it means I am not yet sinking.
But when I am gasping for air and my vision is fading, only one thing matters. Do I allow even the smallest chance that a stranger wants to help me?
Carl R. Rogers said, “People who do not believe in human goodness rarely encounter it.” You cannot convince yourself of this with arguments. You either believe, or you don’t. And you will always be right.
Faith, like a tree, needs to be watered with attention. Surprised by unexpected help? Notice it. Acknowledge it. Give thanks. Even if only in your heart.
Sincerely yours,
-Alexander
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