Lesser Angels

Most encounter these beings in both small and big moments in life. They appear in pivotal times when our own trajectory is carrying us to our ruin. They can be your friends, family, or an absolute stranger. Lesser angels intervene and disrupt our self-destruction. It may be the right words, a simple act of kindness, or a daring action putting themselves between you and harm. Lesser angel can be anyone, even you or I.

With all the chaos, it’s easy to shut down the world and narrow in on our own issues. It’s understandable, if not excusable. In normal times that’s my default state. I’m not really about reaching out. Something inside needs to move me and push me. I understand the reticence. But I know at least two people are still here because I listened to the gentle voice saying help.

When people say that God doesn’t work in this world, it’s because the people aren’t acting on their inclination to help. Or maybe they think that other humans helping isn’t divine intervention. Of all the charges humans have none are more important than being the answer to prayers.

You may not know why you feel moved to encourage someone or give them five dollars, or any other acts of kindness, but act on it. You may be helping someone to fight back the darkness. You might stop a suicide. You could save a marriage. You might prevent a drug addiction. We see so little of other people’s actual lives; you never know their struggle. Listen to that whisper compelling you to reach out, to show kindness. You may just be a lesser angel.