Often in conversations with friends, they mention shopping at Nordstrom Rack or Target, look at me guiltily, and mumble, “Sorry, Christy.”
Oh, friends. As if my life is so perfect that I have time to criticize others’ choices.
Sometimes we think we are supposed to keep up with ALL THE THINGS. To be worthy human beings, we must live perfect environmental, culturally aware, sweatshop-free lives.
I think we’re all given gifts. Some of my friends are beautifully gifted at hospitality; others at friendship. Those are not my giftings. I’m an introvert and am protective with my time and heart. So I watch my friends who are talented at welcoming others and, instead of shaming myself, I choose to learn and appreciate.
I have a friend who is extraordinarily gifted with compassion for the homeless. She leads retreats, works on food projects, and displays a general willingness to dive into situations where others might feel scared to go. Another set of friends has chosen to forgo many suburban comforts to walk with the poor of our city, investing in friendships and lives. I’m watching and learning and feeling gratitude that these people are making our city a better place.
The very people who duck their heads in embarrassment as they talk about fashion are the ones who inspire me to live a more open, more loving, fuller life.
We all learn from each other, my friends. If my writing makes someone think about their purchases, I am grateful. But I am also grateful for friends with other passions. When we share our hearts and words with each other, our gifts combine to make the world a better place for all.
