Noticing Others...

I recently commented on what I thought were new hair cuts of one lady and also a young girl. Then I found out that both had cut their hair a few weeks earlier. I really need to work on my observation powers.

Yesterday I was at a friend's house and did not noticed the walls that were half painted until she pointed it out as part of a renovation project. I really need to work on my observation of things.

A few weeks ago I saw an older man in my neighborhood. He usually walks his dog but I noticed he was walking alone. I was proud I'd noticed but was fearful that maybe the dog had died. Yesterday I saw him again as I was doing a cool down from a jog. His arm was in a sling and I made quick chit-chat as we passed. He said it was a rotor cuff injury and I teased him about playing baseball at his age. I said nothing about the dog but silently prayed for him as I walked away.

This morning we passed again and I stopped a bit longer. I asked about his dog. He told me the dog had died - two years ago! So much for great observation!

Failure to observe things - more importantly people - most importantly the needs of people - is nothing more than another indication of self-centeredness. I/we tend to love the things we see and noticed. In a crowded room I can notice a beautiful woman. On a eight lane highway I can noticed a really cool car. Well - more work for me in loving God and others and crucifying self.

I'm so glad God notices all of us. He doesn't just see the pretty sanctified people. He sees those of us who can only see themselves. Then He picks up our head and gives us vision to a whole new world outside of our world.

Who/what have you noticed today?