Today was my mom’s first session of a group voice therapy. It was a very small group – just 1 other person. She was an older woman who also has Parkinson’s and is living with her daughter. We all went into a room and after some warm-up exercises, the therapist instructed my mom and the other woman on having a conversation with one another. It was evident that the participant really struggled. Her legs were constantly moving and it was very difficult to hear and understand what she was trying to say. My mom strained to listen and piece the words together. She felt bad telling her that she couldn’t hear her. At the end of the session, the therapist asked what they thought. The woman said she thought my mom sounded like she didn’t need the help at all. My mom is able to speak up when she thinks about it, but it is hard for her to keep it that way. Later, I asked my mom if she thought the class would be beneficial to her. She said she thought it would even though her and the other participant are so unevenly matched. It occurred to me that in a group setting, people are there to encourage others. That in itself is helpful to all parties. Perhaps this is my mom’s roll in this particular class. Sometimes we go into a situation thinking it is about us and getting what we want out of it, when in reality, we are there to help others. I thought this was particularly meaningful as we begin Lent. I always think about not only what to “give up”, but also what to do to help strengthen my relationship with God. At church tonight, I realized Lent is not even all about me. It is about others. As we do these things to get closer to God, we get to know Him more. As we do that, we realize that God loves not only us, but those around us. As we realize that more, we understand that our short lives are not all about doing and getting what we want, but it is about love – more specifically loving others. So, during Lent, while I am trying to do all these “things”, I am going to try hardest to put my focus on others. Everyone will benefit then.

I Found God today beginning Lent with an “others” focus.