I learned today that microwaves, particularly those mounted
above the range, have safety features that shut them down when they could break
down or start a fire. There is a fuse
inside that shorts out when the microwave gets too hot. It was a nearly $160 fix. Wouldn't it be nice if we had a safety
feature like that fuse that would stop us from doing something or saying
something harmful, foolish or hurtful? I
suspect most of us have made some sort of mistake that we wish we could have
prevented, “if only.” Misunderstandings,
missteps, mistakes, misinterpretations all make us miss out on some wonderful
opportunities, relationships, activities.
If only we could have been stopped in time!
Many are in the midst of beginning a new academic year and are
clumsy and self-conscious, cautious and risk-takers all at the same time. For those who have self-esteem or
self-confidence issues it can be especially hard to find a safe place to fit
in. It can be easy to see things in a
glance or hear things in words that aren’t meant to be identity definers. For young teens, this can be especially difficult. For anyone entering a new environment it can
be hard to feel secure. It can be
life-changing to make a friend who can reassure another that they are of value
and have skills and talents that can make an impact.
Dear God, please be with those who feel like they are the
object of unwanted judgment and attention.
Help them find a safe place or person who can help them feel valuable
and loved. Guide them to new friends who
accept them for who they are now and who they are becoming. Give them peace of mind and a calm heart as
they learn their value. Let them feel
your love. Amen.