Fluid Form

Birds in flight, swooping into fluid form together, are mesmerizing. At times the mass unravels into fraying threads that stream into individuality, but like shoaling fish, the careening flock creates a beautiful dance that entrances even the sky. 

So it is with people, too, in times of swarming. Consider the peaceable act of barn raising in Amish communities or Kenyans working together to build sand dams. Acts of commonality, in which the greater good sings from the hearts of each individual, can evoke moments of true beauty - the kind of moments that show the worth of humanity.

We need individual voices to encourage and remind us - especially when rights are being denied or the mob mentality meanders along a less-than-ideal course. But, we also need to remember the strength of community. Together, mankind can accomplish remarkable feats of compassion that leave a lasting impression - even if it is focused on just one family.

Today, find time to align yourself with something larger than just one life: serve in a soup kitchen, build a Habitat house, tutor at-risk children from your local schools, advocate for the oppressed. You'll be amazed by what more than you can do.