The Recycle Man (Remnants from a trip to Guatemala)
I’m not gonna lie—the man sitting nearby on a two hour flight between destinations began to bug me. “Do you recycle?” He asked the diligent stewardess who was trying desperately to serve all eighty passengers on board.
“Sorry, we don’t,” she said as politely as she could while disposing of the special drinks the man had ordered. As she made her way through the throngs, he caught her on the flip-flop and reminded her of the coffee now needed. She delivered. I couldn’t help but overhear his need for a sandwich as he leaned comfortably back within earshot of the screaming baby behind him.
Downcast my eyes were as I caught a glimpse of his socks as the hem of his jeans rose slightly. The white stars upon the blue background were a hint of what was to come. The red stripes did eventually reveal themselves, and my irritation grew.
Wait wait - if I throw one more thing in - would you not like him with me? I kid you not - he then boasted to one beside him. “I have over a thousand dollars I did not spend!” Mr. bright socks, mister I will let you know of my wish to recycle and everyone within earshot, and last but not least, I will let you know how much money I have left which will then let you know how much I probably was able to spend.
Now you know what I’m talking about when I told you that this individual was getting to me. However, I knew better as in the image of God we are ALL created. Never does it say anywhere in His Word that we will not be irritated with those whom He created but the fruit of His love is kindness, compassion, patience, and perseverance. Not a one of those items on the list was dancing through my mind at the time.
I suppose it’s easy to understand all of these wonderful words while extending the fruit to the “least of these.” And apparently I’m living proof that it’s not so easy to see His image and likeness in others who bug you. Love ALL while seeking His face in ALL because He is our ALL in ALL isn’t always so easy. As I seek, may I eek out Your face in ALL even when it shows up in the form of red, white and blue sock wearing passengers proudly proclaiming their recycling abilities while boasting of their extravagant financial excesses.
May we desire transformation not only for ourselves but for all those around us. When we know we desire more of Him for others— it just might be the beginning of Gal. 20:20. “I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” He not only did this, but does this, for ALL—even though sometimes I want to believe He couldn’t have possibly meant “them”! Amen.
CHANDLER AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY
The Chandler American Legion Auxiliary met on Tuesday afternoon, April 18th. President, Patsy Buys, conducted the meeting in usual form. Jeri Sankey gave the opening devotions. A moment of silence was held in remembering our departed members and our veterans. The group recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sang the National Anthem. The Auxiliary also recited the Preamble to the Constitution of the American Legion Auxiliary.
The meeting continued with roll call, secy’s and treas’ reports. Discussion was held about the 2nd District President’s project. President Robin Olson is collecting money to be divided in the Veteran’s offices. The Auxiliary voted to give $50.00 to this project. For more business, the Auxiliary voted to give $50 to each of the 2 Ronald McDonald houses in Sioux Falls. This is remembering that April is Children and Youth Month. Another motion was made and carried to give $100.00 donation for the Vietnam Wall that is going to be on display the week of the Murray County Fair held in August.
Plans were made to have Poppy Day during the 3rd week in May. Watch for students coming to your door with poppies. Patsy reported that Brandon Lolkus has agreed to be the Memorial Day speaker. Linda Stevens will print the program for Memorial Day services. Mavis read the past year’s history; Patsy encouraged members to fill out the “Year-end Impact Numbers report” each month. The meeting closed with Jeri giving the closing prayer and the Auxiliary sang “America, the Beautiful.” Mary served lunch. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday afternoon, May 16 at 1:30 p.m. Linda and Patsy are hostesses.
