I was blessed to be able to visit India a few weeks ago. I visited the South, Kerala region, and Nagpur in the centre of India. I gave there lectures at two theological seminaries. But that is not what I will write about.
Instead, I want to share an experience.
India, as most know, is a rather poor country. Whatever the reason, is not the focus of this text.
Growing up in “the west”, I have been spoiled to have most things I have ever wanted, even if I don’t actually need most of these things.
The poverty in India is in some cases extreme, unimaginable really. While visiting the slums in Nagpur, it was hard to keep tears away and the feeling of hopelessness invaded my heart – I felt ashamed and empty. However, what I experienced there, changed me.
The people I met, poor people, some almost naked with no earthly possessions, gave me a gift. A gift more valuable than any earthly item, more valuable than any amount of gold and more precious than any diamond.
They gave me love and kindness. One word, one smile, directed at me, a complete stranger. The gift of kindness and love, given by those that by our standards have nothing. Yet, now I know and I am sure – they are richer than I ever will be. God is Love, and even if these simple people don’t “know it”, they live it and they share it, from their hearts.
We, in the developed Western world have all but forgotten this most precious thing we can, we must, share with others.
God forgive us.
Priest Phillip Calington 