Allison (08/18/2024)

Last evening, after Mass, my husband and I treated several of our family to a dinner at the local family restaurant. After we got seated, Allison, our waitperson, came to the table. I introduced her to the rest of my family and suggested that they call her by name when they spoke to her. Later I explained to my grandsons that in using Allison’s name, they are more apt to truly see her and to respect her as a person. I was proud of them as they did as I asked. And I enjoyed Allison’s smile as they each called her by name.

Our world could use a bit more respect for one another. One of the tragedies of COVID was the impact of masking on our society. With masking, our accountability slipped as did our treatment of others when we feel anonymous. Masking hides our humanity, our expressions, our identity. I pray we are never forced to mask again.

Our LORD was most adamant about the way we are to treat one another. He stated it quite simply: love one another as we ourselves desire to be loved. Sounds simple, as do many of Jesus’ commands, but we know simple isn’t synonymous with easy. How do we love one another as our LORD and Savior commands us?

I believe the first step is seeing the other. And I believe that knowing a name and using it helps. Calling another by name simultaneously calls us into accountability as to how we behave with this known Child of God.

As we journey in faith, buoyed by hope, and fueled by love, let us always and everywhere seek to treat one another well, to treat one another as we ourselves desire to be treated, with loving kindness. Let us look at one another as the daughters and sons of our loving LORD. Let us look for our LORD in one another.

Last night as we stood to leave the restaurant, I thanked Allison for a great time. And I smiled when I heard my three grandsons each thank her, too, by name. I will remember her smile for some time.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.