Dear Friend,

I hope you had a wonderful Father's Day. Although the day has passed, I wanted to take a moment to extend my heartfelt wishes to all the incredible fathers, father figures and single mums pulling double duty. Your strength, dedication, and love make a profound difference every day. Thank you!

This story melts my heart each time I read it:

A 24-year-old boy looking out through the train shouted, Dad, look, "the trees are going behind; they are moving very fast." His dad simply stared at him with so much joy!

A young couple seated nearby looked at the 24-year-old and thought to themselves, he's so grown up yet so childish, he must have a mental disorder for his father not to be bothered.

Suddenly, the young man exclaimed again; "Dad, look, the clouds are running with us."

The couple could not resist and said to the old man, why don't you take your son to a good doctor maybe a psychiatrist? The old man smiled and said "I just did. We are just coming from a doctor but not a psychiatrist. My son who has been blind from birth, just got his sight today and his behaviour may seem stupid to you but it's more than any irritation you felt." The couple just sat bewildered, lost for words with a mixture of tears and shame.

Remember, everyone we meet has their own unique story. We shouldn't be too quick to judge. Instead, we should try to understand their perspective before forming an opinion. There are often heartwarming details about people, places, and events that are worth discovering.

This week, be quick to listen, slow to speak, and careful in making judgments. By seeking to understand others rather than making assumptions, we can improve our relationships.

Shalom and have a great week ahead!