Hi Reader,

I’m intrigued by the piece I wrote few weeks ago about the questions Jesus asked. If you missed it, you can click here to read it.

Many of his questions were asked to help people understand themselves better. That’s a good motive for us to ask questions of others. To gain more understanding of the people in our lives.

Two people I’ve been thinking about lately are my parents, both of whom have been dead for over 20 years. It occurred to me the other day that they must have had a life before I came on the scene.

Imagine that? What a surprise.

My mother was 24 when I was born, and my father was 29 when he adopted me. I know so little about their lives before I entered their’s. I wish they were still around so I could ask them questions to understand them better.

Answers to questions about their early years before me would have been helpful in understanding the forces that shaped their lives.

Because from understanding, compassion can flow. And in my case, from compassion, forgiveness more easily be granted.

How about you?

Who are the people in your life who have impacted you deeply, but for whom you know little? If they are still alive what questions could you ask to understand them better?

Until next time, I wish you all the joy that you can wish.*

John Certalic

  • The Merchant of Venice, Act III, scene 2

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