We have often talked about being a welcoming community. We are an affirming ministry, so, in theory, all are welcome. We smile when a child is laughing, or crying. We give a sign of peace to those in our space on Sunday mornings. But how can be bring that welcome into the world, into our country, into our city.
There are things happening right now in Regina that make me feel like we have failed to be a welcoming community. People are suffering and people are trying to ask for help but receiving very little.
In the First Nations tradition, there is a potlatch. We have somewhat appropriated this term to potluck. But its meaning is something very different. The hosts of a potlatch shared everything with those who came. The more they gave, the more people celebrated. It was sharing of ressources in a true sense.
When I look around my house, I see everything that I have accumulated over the years. I try to display what I have but there are still boxes and drawers full of stuff. I feel like I need it but in reality I know that I don't.
It is not easy giving what we have, because we have been conditioned into thinking the person with the most stuff wins. Why not try to turn that on its head? The person with the least wins. They are free. They can be open.
So put a box by your door. Each day find one item that you don't need. At the end of the month, take that box and pass it on. Give it someone who needs it.
Peace and love,
Michelle
