We Are All Integral Pieces of Life's Puzzle

I’m sure you’re aware of who Stephen Hawking is…and if you aren’t, you should be - stop texting the person next to you and look him up. He is one of the top minds in the world, and has been for decades. His brilliance is off the charts, and his career has been astounding. It is made even more so because he has spent most of his adult life bound to a wheelchair and unable to speak with his voice. But, that hasn’t stopped him from aiding humanity and furthering our understanding of how the universe works…it also hasn’t stopped him from experiencing weightlessness. Those of us who are not otherly-abled typically figure that people with his condition (Motor Neurone Disease and Amyotropic Lateral Sclerosis) need our help more than we need their help. But Stephen Hawking breaks that mold for us. He is an example of a universal truth: each one of us plays an important part in the world, regardless of who we are or our life circumstances.

This truth is illuminated brightly in places such as L’Arche communities. These are intentional communities where people who are otherly-abled live side by side with those who are not. These two groups learn from each other – they are not simply caretaker facilities.

It is when we realize our interdependence with others, on multiple levels, that the presence of God becomes that much more tangible. Be well my friends.

Peace,

Kevin