On November 13th, after a moment of silence to remember the victims of the Paris attacks, the French National Assembly broke into a spontaneous rendition of La Marseillaise (the French national anthem) for the first time since the liberation of France after WW1 on 11 November 1918.
Thoughts of the people of France and their families have filled our hearts and prayers this past week. Watching as the tragedies unfolded brought back memories of 911 and how I felt on that day and in the weeks and months that followed. The live footage of their police and firemen racing to the chaotic scenes, sometimes not knowing if there might be more terrorists lurking about, reminded me of the bravery, courage and selfless acts of heroism demonstrated by our fire and policemen.
I still remember the sense of unity and patriotism that prevailed in the days following 911. Politicians and lawmakers set aside their petty differences, if only for a brief time, and stood together unified. American flags flew atop buildings, on balconies, in the backs of trucks and attached to car windows. In the darkest hours of our national tragedy, our differences shrunk and disappeared like a shadow at noon day. It was as if our blinders were removed and the scales blurring our vision had fallen from our eyes. Calluses resulting from years of class warfare, exaggeration of our differences rather than focusing on the values that make up the core of our great nation.
Values like the freedom to speak, the freedom to believe and worship god, the freedom to pursue happiness, life and liberty became our most distinguishing attributes and not our income bracket, racial composition or religious affiliations. And like the face of a dear friend, we recognized the humanity that we all have in common.
In the midst of the confusion and terror immediately following these senseless acts of violence, regular people like you and me, exhibited extraordinary courage and compassion as they assisted others who were more injured than themselves.
In the aftermath the news coverage, as expected, has focused mostly on unfolding the drama. That’s just the nature and business of the news and reporting. But in the bigger picture, often ignored or at the most mentioned only in passing, are the countless acts of kindness and compassion rendered by the silent majority, the good and decent people, the Good Samaritans of the world.
I am grateful for the helpers, those who when confronted with the choice between their own self interests and helping others choose the later. They inspire and uplift us all with their goodness, and selfless acts of service. They remind us of what is truly most important, that we are all brothers and sisters, children of the same God.
Recently a friend of ours was in a car accident. She was alone and her car was totaled. As she stood by the wreckage trying to sort out what had just happened, several people stopped to see if they could be of assistance. A tow truck was called, and she was given a ride to her home. These ‘helpers’ had already worked a full day and no doubt had someplace to be. But instead they felt compassion and interrupted their lives to take what would seem like a detour to many and went out of their way to help a perfect stranger.
Have you ever been the recipient of this type of selfless act of kindness? Have you ever had a health scare, a traffic accident or a near miss? From time to time we will all have the opportunity to sit and watch as the dust settles in the aftermath of some unexpected event. Has a friend, acquaintance or even a complete stranger shown you compassion in your hour of need? In those humbling moments, did you not only pause to thank those who came to your aid, but to also give thanks to God for your many blessings?
Sometimes the pivotal events in our lives may be more subtle and private. And even though they are less spectacular, and non life threatening, still they provide ample opportunity to remember. To make quiet observations, and introspectively evaluate the course of our lives. In the midst of our trials and tribulations there will be subtle promptings to remember, to reflect and express gratitude for the Savior, His example and His atoning sacrifice.
Have you ever been the one to stop and offer a helping hand? Did you realize in those moments, when giving service to others, or simply lending a hand, that you were in a very real sense becoming God’s hands? The prophet / King Benjamin taught his people,
“And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God. (Mosiah 2:17)”
At times rendering help to others will not be the most convenient thing to do. It may require that you give of yourself and perhaps even go a little out of your way. And while these acts of selfless kindness may appear to be detours to some, they are in fact the road less traveled, the extra mile on the straight and narrow path that will lead us back to live with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. On your journey through mortality you may not always see the hand of God in your life, but with humble, quiet introspection you will see His fingerprints on your heart and soul.