Over the past few weeks – there have been many posts on social media – of so many happy faces – and wonderful scenes – taken by those on holiday.

This past week – I have also seen posts from proud parents – of their children all ready to begin their new school year.

However – one particular post caught my eye – it was drawing attention to those children who may not have experienced such a good time – and was pointing out the importance of the – ‘safeguarding guidelines’ – that are in place in our schools – in order to help all children – ” feel safe – secure – happy – loved – and special” – as they deserve to feel.

Here is a quote – “The summer holidays mean your pupils will be spending many weeks without your school being able to check in on them – and during that time, they may be more exposed to difficult situations which could affect their wellbeing and safety.

Before the start of term, consider these risks, so you can be ready to look out for any concerns about returning pupils and staff.”

What stood out for me was how important it to be aware of others – to look out for one another – for as this quote suggests – “What we see – depends mainly on what we look for”.

I have learnt over the years – that seeking to see – and understand others – is so important – for – “If we could look into each other’s hearts – and understand the unique challenges each one of us face – I think we would treat each other much more gently – with more love – patience – tolerance – and care”.

I have to confess – that there have been times when I have been too quick to judge – to criticize – instead of seeking to understand. And of course it’s not always possible to understand – but I do need to try to – ‘see beyond’ – to allow for whatever someone may be facing in their lives – even though I may not be aware of it.

That I think – is the essence of love – as described here – “What does love look like? – it has the hands to help others – it has the feet to hasten to the poor and needy – it has the eyes to see misery and want – it has the ears to hear the sighs and sorrows of men – that is what love looks like”.

I love when I am challenged – when the things that I see and hear – cause me to stop – to think – to re-evaluate my life.

And so – this week my prayer is – that I may always have eyes that see – or as this quote says – “Always pray to have eyes to see the best – a heart that forgives the worst – a mind that forgets the bad – and a soul that never loses faith”.

Blessings – Lois