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THE LESSONS MICHAEL TAUGHT ME

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Contributed by: Harriet Weigel on 11/19/2007

God speaks to us in many ways, through many people. A few years ago he spoke to me through a man named Michael. It wasn't the first time that he used Michael to make an impact on my life. Michael was middle aged, slender, gray haired and very intense. Michael was a client at ARC-Ventura County. He was my friend and he taught me well.

My son Billy and I attended the November meeting of Handicapables, a program that is available to senior citizens and people with disabilities, and operates under the umbrella of Catholic Charities. it was held at Saint Joseph's Retirement Center in Ojai. Many people of all ages were at the meeting, several in wheelchairs.

The chapel we met in was nestled among the trees, it was a beautiful setting, peaceful, serene and incredibly quiet. It's one of those places that whispers to you, and you feel accepted.

Billy and I had arrived early and were sitting in the chapel when a van full of people arrived. Michael was in the group, he saw us, and hurried towards us, Michael never arrived slowly, he rushed from place to place. We hugged and settled down in our respective chairs waiting for the service to start. I could tell that something was bothering Michael, he seemed agitated. I waited and sure enough, Michael was angry. He turned to me and stated that someone had pushed him, he had fallen and hurt his arm and his leg. He was furious and said that he was going to talk to the person. The service began and the three of us Michael, Billy and I became engrossed in the message. It was a message of Thanksgiving, a peaceful one given by Father Kevin Bray, a priest that had been injured in an automobile accident and has spent over twenty five years ministering to people from his wheelchair. Father Bray, and several other members of the clergy conducted a service that included music, a teaching and Communion. At the conclusion of the service Michael rejoined his friends and Billy and I left the chapel, we all went to the centers patio. A catered lunch had been provided for us, complete with entertainment and door prizes. Handicapable functions are always fun. Approximately seventy people with disabilities were there as guests.

Once again, Michael exploded on the scene, he erupted from somewhere and with a solemn expression and quiet voice stated, "Harriet, I'm not angry anymore, I forgave my friend, that's what Jesus would want me to do." I stood there beside Michael, and felt so humbled by his words. This man, had heard the true intent of the words that were spoken during the service. He had learned from them and applied them to his own life situation. He had answered the question "What would Jesus do," Michael forgave his friend, as Christ forgives us. We were there together, Michael who is Jewish, Billy and I interdenominational Christians, and Father Kevin a Catholic Priest.

And we all worshiped a God that is real, that cares. A God that goes beyond denominations and touches us where we are. I am so thankful for the lessons Michael taught me...someday in another time and place we will hold hands and run...thank you God for the messengers you send us...thank you for Michael and his unconditional love.

Shalom...Amen...peace be with you.

Harriet

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CONTRIBUTOR INFORMATION

Harriet Weigel

Pt Hueneme , CA

Harriet Weigel has posted 7 stories and 2 comments since joining on 3/9/2007. Harriet Weigel 's average story rating is 4.25.

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