Heart of the House: We Won’t Reach Everyone, But We Will Reach No One If We Don’t Do Our Part

“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” – Albert Schweitzer

I love this quote that reminds me of the many people who have helped me out of the darkness, out of hopelessness. It speaks about those who have found me when i had lost my way, and guided me back to the light, rekindling life.

This light isn’t specified, but I believe it applies to the multiple aspects of ourselves – From beliefs to courage, from hope to love, from certainty to faith, we can lose the light. It truly is a dark and dismal place to be…in the dark.

However, this quote reminds me that there were people out there who can and are willing to help. And it implores us to show our gratitude to those who have helped us back on the path and relit our light. And, in having amazing people champion me back time and again when I feel I’ve come to my end?
From my years in the dark as a heroin addict, to a seemingly impossible dream; from believing we were finally living the dream, to having someone do their damndest to destroy it, I’ve ended up in some very dark places with my light almost completely out.

However, each and every time, there have been those who helped me find my way, and to relight my light. They took their own time, investment and belief in me …they have encouraged me to keep moving forward, believing in the dream God planted in my heart. Perhaps you have even been the recipient of this gift in your lifetime. Remember what it felt like to you, and imagine what it would have been like without those who stepped in to help you.

Sometimes, on rare occasions, you can actually help yourself. However, most of the time it takes outside intervention. It may be someone we trust, and sometimes, even a complete stranger.
In any case, this quote urges us to show our gratitude towards those who help us. Take a moment to consider how you have treated those who have “lighted the flame within” for you – those who have helped you come alive again, reignited you to faith and trust.

If we look outside ourselves, and consider what we can do to help others who may have lost their way, those who are without light and are in need. Have you ever seen someone who looked lost inside?
It’s a fairly distinctive look, a person who has lost the spark, or some significant dream or hope – The question is what can we do to help? The simple answer is we can try, we can put forth some effort. But the reality is they too must put some effort in or nothing will come of it.

I admit, in my own life, times I might not have noticed some attempts to help me, as I was unready to receive their gift. So sometimes, our best efforts will be for naught, if they are unready or unwilling. However, I do not believe that such a possible outcome absolves us of our duty to our fellow humans. That’s like saying you shouldn’t try because you might fail. Even if all you do is get their attention, and get them thinking about trying to find their light again, you have done a great thing for them. Sometimes, with proper motivation, they can fight their way back. Other times, it leaves them receptive to the next person who tries to help them.

Whether you are the benefactor or beneficiary in this quote, there are most definitely reasons for celebration. Both parties should feel good, and be grateful for having helped, or for having been helped. We won’t be able to reach everyone, but we will reach no one if we don’t at least do our part.

Janine Epere

CEO Destiny Haven

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