11 September 2010

MISSION: Be Kind, No Exceptions

As Number 2 to Laura's SAL, I'm pleased to do my first mission in a few months. This mission is very personal and important to me. Thanks to Laura, I'm posting it myself, as me. -- Vivian


Number 2 performs a special mission of kindness.


Date:
September, 11, 2010

Time: 12:45pm

Location: Islamic Center of Pittsburgh



For as long as I can remember, I've studied religion. Not just one, but all major religions and several "minor" religions. I'm intrigued by the beliefs that hold people tight, the words that shape the lives of families, and the rituals followed on a daily basis. I grew up in a family that didn't have religion so as a youngster, I was not able to experience something so amazing as belief to keep with me. I wasn't raised in a culture that stressed spirituality. In a way, I think this allowed me to be more open, more accepting, more tolerant to many different religions and those who study them. I love to see the interactions of those who truly love to serve. It matters not their background, I think, as long as giving, kindness, and love are motivating forces.


Today, this country remembers a terrible tragedy. I will not speculate on the reasons why. I will only say that we should find strength in hope, love, togetherness, and faith. Regardless of our affiliations, we are all still one, we are humans who all deserve to be treated with dignity. And I do believe that dignity is not dependent on affiliations, no matter the type.

My mission today was a handwritten note dedicated to the members of the Islamic Center of Pittsburgh.


I also included a few decorative doilies with words of LOVE written on them.


As difficult as today is for many, I imagine that those who attend services at the Center may have a tough day as well.


I want those attending the Center to know that for so many of us, love is the only answer. And that means Be Kind, No Exceptions.



At this point in my life, I found a faith, a spiritual path to guide me in my everyday interactions. I am blessed to have a guiding force that gives me the strength and courage needed to simply make it through some days. When I need extra strength, I look to my family, my friends, and my beloved Pittsburgh community, every single member.

15 comments:

Anonymous said...

You're amazing...love this. :)

Anonymous said...

What a great mission. I love the idea.

Scout said...

This is the best mission I've seen yet!

SAL said...

Vivian,

Your heart is so pure, so full of love in its truest definition.

Thank you for sharing that heart of yours in this mission. And thank you, especially, for sharing that heart of yours with me.

I love you, lady.

Xoxo,
SAL

Jess said...

I love it!

Jess

Anonymous said...

Thank You!!!!

Jill said...

I absolutely love this. This is exactly what it means to never forget September 11, 2001.
Wonderful, wonderful mission!

Heather said...

This is my first time commenting on this blog. I love the missions and this one is my favorite.

James said...

This is absolutely the best idea that I have ever seen.

You are amazing.

Evelyn said...

Lovely. Thank you for doing this.

Kristina @ spabettie said...

this is perfect. I have no doubt you moved and touched many people with this.

thank you for all of your amazing. :)

Anonymous said...

Amazing. There has been too much hate lately. So much of it trying to claim the mantle of religion. It has made me quite sad and distressed. What an antidote is this lovely and moving gesture! I wish everyone would follow your lead.

JenEngland
(Apparently I don't know my password and with my old computer fried, I cannot sign in. )

Shannonehill said...

Beautiful Vivian!

Benevolent Benefaction said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Benevolent Benefaction said...

Exactly what we intend to do. Spread some kindness. Thank you for being the brave one and stepping up and leaving notes like this. We are sure it means a lot to those who recieve them cause it means a lot to us and we aren't even near Pittsburgh. :)

"If we learn nothing else, we learn that life is short and there is no room for hate."

One of our favorite quotes already! :)