There, But for the Grace of God, Go I

It is not always easy to accept our connectedness.  When we have been violated it is natural to take steps to defend ourselves.  We know that allowing abuse to continue is often being a victim and to draw boundaries to prevent being taken advantage of is essential.  It is difficult to embrace connectedness and at the same time claim our rights to be respected.  And yet, this is exactly what God does.

It is also difficult to embrace our connectedness without feeling like we are losing our identity.  We place a high value on individualism.  If fact, the most promoted motivation for achievement is independence.  With all the emphasis and reinforcement we place on success, acknowledging our connectedness will feel like we are losing ourselves.  But didn't Jesus say, "He who will lose his life will save it"?  We are all connected!!