Rock Bottom

I remember a time when people did not lock their front doors. Now, packages are being stolen off our front porches moments after being delivered. I remember a time when our motto was “give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses.” Now our motto is “get out and stay out.” I remember a time when neighbors helped neighbors without thinking twice. Now it takes a viral video before people do the right thing.

 

I recall reading a story several years back about an American working in Africa. While there, he fell in love with a local whom he married. Upon completion of his overseas assignment, he returned to the United States with his new bride. After several years living in America, she returned to her homeland for a visit, only to stay. Never again returning to her new home in the US. She told her husband that in her native land, everyone worked for the benefit and survival of everyone else. Whereas in America, people lived, worked, and played with little concern for the benefit and survival of anyone but themselves.

 

Marriage vows typically include the promise: “for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish.” Beyond this small circle, however, all too often, everything seems fair game. Now, I am not suggesting that all of us should love and cherish everyone. Though I am pretty sure there are those who would be quick to say that we should. I would be happy if we could simply respect, trust, encourage, and support each other. Why must these attributes be limited to within the family unit? Why cannot each and every one of us respect, trust, encourage, and support each and every one of us? No matter the relationship.