A Symbol of True Community
Last week, my husband Malcolm and I finally took our twice-delayed 20th anniversary trip to the Galapagos Islands—an extravagant “bucket list” adventure for us. Disconnected from technology and in tune with the rhythm of the sun rising and setting, the calls of birds and sea lions, our hearts and souls reset to the cadence of the Creator.
On day four, Malcolm’s back reminded him, in the most uncomfortable of ways, that we are embodied creatures. The spasms were worse when we snorkeled, which we had anticipated to be a highlight of the trip. When Malcolm informed our trip leader, Edwin—a 40-something man from Mexico with a brilliant, organizational mind and a tender, compassionate heart—that he would be skipping the snorkeling, Edwin immediately responded, “Malcolm, you have to go. We’ll put the life ring in the water, and I will pull you.” I wasn’t sure if Malcolm would accept the offer, but humility won out over pride.
That afternoon, we swam with sea turtles, manta rays, and the biggest, most brilliant parrot fish we’ve ever seen. We spotted hawkfish, a giant moray eel, countless king angelfish and surgeonfish, and many other beautiful creatures gliding by us. Twice more, we snorkeled and Edwin pulled Malcolm along. Edwin kicked so that Malcom could join the group to swim with penguins and sharks and see blue-footed boobies nesting on cliffs.
The memory of one man pulling another in need became a symbol of true community. So often, it is Malcolm offering compassion— this time, it was beautiful to see him receive it.
Is there someone in your life who could use a little help so they can be more engaged with life and community? Or, perhaps, you are in need of a hand. The world can seem cruel, but we have great capacity to be kind. The Threshold Center was created in part as a response to the urgent need in our society for safe places of belonging. Healthy communities are built on compassion and trust. I hope you will consider meaningful ways to be a part of ours.
Growing and learning together,
Mary Bea Sullivan, Director
