Yesterday morning I got up at 5:30 a.m. and was out walking by 5:45.

The sun was barely coming up.

The further I walked from my apartment, the more fear grew in me.

Because it was still a bit dark out, my fear told me that my neighborhood was full of criminals that were out to get me.

I began to pray the Guardian Angel prayer over and over.

Then the sun rose, filling the sky with brilliant, beautiful colors.

Birds began to sing.

My fears went away and I was comfortable walking the walk I do many times in my neighborhood.

As I was walking back to my apartment, I thought about what I’d just experienced.

I was walking around my neighborhood.

Why had I become so full of fear because I began my walk when it was still a bit dark? It’s still my neighborhood.

Today I sat and read this coming Sunday’s Mass readings. The Second Reading ends with this verse:

"You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Love does no evil to the neighbor; hence, love is the fulfillment of the law. Romans 13:9b-10

Wow.

Coincidence?

I don’t think so.

How do I bring love into my neighborhood?

Do I look people in the eye and smile as I say “Hello”?

Am I always rushing as I walk to and from my car and as I drive in and out of my neighborhood?

I want to do better, in my neighborhood and beyond.

Love.

I hear You, Lord.

Blessings of love!