The Essence of Us
Why We’re at Our Best When We’re at Our Best Together
A young boy gets separated from his father in a bustling Argentinian plaza. Noticing the distraught child, a kind man asks for the father’s name, then lifts the boy onto his shoulders, hoping the father will see him above the crowd. When other patrons seated at nearby tables realize what’s happening, they join the man in chanting the father’s name. Perched on a stranger’s shoulders, the boy is visibly shaken and still crying.
Soon, the steady rhythm of a kick drum and snare joins the cadence of the crowd. Then a bass line. Then the lead singer, strumming his guitar, adds his voice—singing the father’s name, followed by the line: “Come and find Juan Cruz.” One by one, men and women join the chorus, and the song swells louder. Within minutes, the father hears his name being sung—and finally spots his son above the crowd. As the boy is gently lowered and runs into his father’s embrace, the band keeps playing; the crowd singing triumphantly.
We are at our best when we are at our best together.
This selfless act—strangers coming together as allies for someone in need, using their talents, joining their voices for a common cause, and sharing in another’s joy and relief—reminds me of the most devastating tragedy to ever occur in my hometown of Columbus, Indiana and how we united as a community.
In June 2008, nearly eleven inches of rain fell over two days, causing profound flooding of the two rivers running through Columbus. Main roads in and out of town were closed. Patients from the local hospital had to be evacuated, and nearly 3,000 homes and countless lives were affected.
But the catastrophe brought out the best in our community. No single person could do everything that was needed for the care, clean-up, and reconstruction of our town. But together, everyone mobilized and played a part—using their unique skills and resources—to put the town back together.
When we act selflessly for the sake of others, that is community.
When we come together to support those in need, that is community.
When we raise our voices to amplify a common purpose, that is community.
When we turn strangers into allies through kindness, that is community.
When we celebrate each other’s joys and triumphs as our own, that is community.
It’s not only what we do together in the face of catastrophe. It’s the daily acts we share that strengthen our bond.
That is the essence of community.
Question
How am I using my voice, gifts, and presence to build and strengthen the community around me?
Peace,
Brandon
The Construction of We
Admittedly, I walk around the holidays fairly oblivious to what others receive. But the card my oldest daughter gave to my wife on Mother’s Day caught my attention.
Made me cry. Beautiful community acts.