We are one

Whiling away time

with coffee in hand

People watching 

as I wait for the car to be serviced

People pass the window of the coffee shop

where I sit

many are happed up against the cold

focussed on their daily business

heads down intent on progress

some with company

others alone.

While I pray.

And I remember conversations I’ve had recently

about praying in our neighbourhoods.

Whether the neighbours know or not

I pray 

And I am changed

As I continue watching

and praying

I no longer see

folk who look happy

or sad

folk who look friendly 

or defensive

those who are weighed down

or have a spring in their step

those who look like unmarried mothers

or those who look like they struggle with addictions

or with mental health issues

or those who look like life is hard

or those who look like they are employed - or not.

I see children of God

each with a unique role to play

in this common life.

I see individuals created and loved by God

And I ask God to bless them

and to bless me

as we share this life together