“Gentleness is strength because it remains constant and clear-minded across all manner of situations.” ~ Andy Mort

  Gentle is the Lamb.

Good Sunday morning, dear friends.  

This morning, I want to share something you may or may not know about me.  When my husband and I lived in Virginia, we raised sheep.  We had a small flock of thirteen.  These wonderful, sweet and gentle animals provided beautiful wool for my weaving, but they also gave me something much greater.  An understanding of what it means to be gentle and, there is great strength in gentleness.  I could tell you many situations with our sheep which taught this lesson to me, but it would take way too much space and time.  Please understand, I don’t profess to be gentle in all my ways, or in everything I do each day. But, learning how gentleness changes us, others, and situations has enabled me to try my best.   

This leads me to the words of Henri Nouwen.  I believe his words are quite profound, considering as a young, boy he lived in the Netherlands during Hitler’s occupation.  That particular time in history and place in the world was anything but gentle.  So, for him to emerge with kindness, gentleness, and love in his heart is truly a lesson for mankind, in my opinion.  I hope you will also find his words meaningful, and that they will speak to you as they did to me.  Because I feel they are not only worthy but are central to our being a kinder and better people.  

“Once in a while we meet a gentle person. Gentleness is a virtue hard to find in a society that admires toughness and roughness. We are encouraged to get things done and to get them done fast, even when people get hurt in the process.  Success, accomplishment, and productivity count. But the cost is high. There is no place for gentleness in such a milieu. Gentle is the one who does “not break the crushed reed, or snuff the faltering wick;” Matthew 12:20. Gentle is the one who is attentive to the strengths and weaknesses of the other and enjoys being together more than accomplishing something. A gentle person treads lightly, listens carefully, looks tenderly, and touches with reverence. A gentle person knows that true growth requires nurture, not force. Let’s dress ourselves with gentleness. In our tough and often unbending world our gentleness can be a vivid reminder of the presence of God among us.” ~ Henri Nouwen

“Our greatest strength lies in the gentleness and tenderness of our heart.” ~ Rumi

I hope you have enjoyed my ‘Sunday Thoughts.’  Please know how much I appreciate your visit, your thoughts, and comments.

Wishing you and yours a most beautiful day! 

Au Revoir,

Sandra

Notes:  Henri Jozef Machiel Nouwen(1932-1996) was a Dutch Catholic priest, professor, writer, and theologian.  He lived his entire life in the Netherlands and his interests were rooted primarily in psychology, pastoral ministry, spirituality, social justice, and community.

Photos~Pinterest and tumblr