2020:
See People
BY Patrick Gray &
Justin Skeesuck
In an age of instant connection with
the latest news at our fingertips, every
day is filled with stories that divide us—
stories surrounding politics, religion,
social justice—and the list goes on.
There is no shortage of divisive topics
that cause lines to be drawn, sides to
be chosen, and pain to be perpetuated
all in the name of who is right and who
is wrong.
In our culture’s effort to be right, to be
vindicated for our beliefs, we are losing
sight of one of the most important
things we can participate in—face-to-
face connection, knowing and being
known by others, being recognized not
for our beliefs or political affiliations,
but to be known simply because we
are children of God—each one of us a
beautiful creation whose existence is
significant.
Every one of us has the opportunity
to be light and love to others, but we
can’t embrace this gift until we set
differences aside, choose people over
6 • Solutions
politics, pursue relationships over
religion, and live by a standard of love
instead of legalism.
It is time to open our eyes and see
people.
Every human interaction is an
opportunity for something sacred
because every conversation is a
chance to meet someone where they
are and show them love. We have these
opportunities with our children, our
spouses, or our significant others, and
we can do this with friends and family.
Any time we look beyond past choices
and behaviors and try to understand
why others say what they say and do
what they do, we begin to know them
for the hearts and not what we choose
to see or what they choose to show us.
Knowing and being known by friends
and family is often more natural
because of proximity and shared
history. Taking time to see those who
aren’t a part of our circles or whose lives
don’t directly intersect with ours can