Do you remember what you were doing November 9, 1989? Let me give you a hint.

Where were you when you heard about the collapse of the Berlin Wall?

It was my 29th birthday in that historic week of 1989. I had a head full of hopes and fears, few of which turned out as I thought they would. Many things have been turning out quite differently. You have probably seen quite a few changes in your own life.

Look at the difference 40 years of isolation made to then-divided Germany. A nation that had been a world superpower followed the delusions and hatefulness of a mad man. The world reacted in shock and disbelief at the horror shown possible in humanity. Under yet another oppressive regime the Berlin Wall went up. Thousands of miles of No Man's Land slashed through Central Europe, cutting an entire culture off from progress and society.

I remember well the bleak chill that hung over the East German border when I personally watched armed guard movements in the winter of 1981. I saw houses in a tiny town cut off and isolated by the man-made rift, with barbed-wire grates cutting through the icy river.

Now looking back ten years after the wall's collapse, Germany has made little progress against the years of stagnation and decline. Western Society has enjoyed unprecedented progress, while a reunified Germany still struggles to get back on its feet.

Victimization, wrong choices and calamities often disrupt individuals' lives. Many people suffer isolation along with the upheaval of chaos in their world. Progress and recovery are disparaging. Hope seems feeble. And, like Germany's efforts toward recovery, there aren't simple answers or quick solutions.

For people struggling, whatever their circumstances, understanding is needed. For many, the sense of isolation is most profound during the holiday season. One person can make the difference to bring encouragement to someone else who is suffering. Your thoughtfulness can brighten a bleak outlook. Will you look around and see where you might be able to make a difference?

And for those feeling alone, realize God's compassion. Recognize that your experiences may help you to reach out to someone else in need. By turning your focus outward, you let God's Spirit work through you to bless others--and you will see a difference in your outlook too.

Let's affirm: "Father, unto thee I consecrate my efforts to be faithful, to give Christ-like love, nurturing and respect. Let the world walk in despair. I will hold a candle of hope." Let's see what we all can do to lift each other.

Books

In Secret Longings of the Heart: Overcoming Deep Disappointment and Unfulfilled Expectations Carol talks about real issues that prevent us from finding fulfillment. You can find an online review and links to Carol's other books.
 
 
 

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