I recently read an article written by an Air Force Colonel. In the article he related a story of his days at the Academy and a man who was "just the janitor". Seems a quiet, unassuming man that they took for granted as they passed him each day was far more than what he appeared. The fact that he cleaned up after them, scrubbing their toilets, buffing the floors and emptying the trash led them to think little of him or his work. One day, one of them stumbled onto an article that changed their whole perspective. Turns out, the janitor was a WW2 Hero. Suddenly, the Cadet's attitude changed toward a man they once considered "just a janitor".
You know, I have often struggled with those who seem to think that everyone has to "fit the mold". We often look for the "natural leader". We seek out the "Influencer". We want to socialize with the popular. We look down on the janitor's in life.
When Brian and I were stationed in Germany we would often take day trips to different places. One day, on one of our trips, I stepped into the "water closet" (restroom) It was not uncommon for the public restrooms to have attendants who would go into the stalls and clean after each use. As I waited for my turn, I watched a tiny, stooped, elderly woman clean toilet seats, pick up paper and wipe down sinks. Soon, it was my turn and as I passed this woman I noticed something that would would forever change my life. On her wrist there was a tattoo. Numbers. Identification. It hit me. She was a concentration camp survivor. Tears sprang to my eyes. This woman had undoubtedly endured the most horrendous of circumstances. Something that I would, by God's grace, never have to experience. As I stood in the stall, leaning against the door I cried for her. This woman should be tending a flower garden, drinking tea with her friends, anywhere but wiping down a toilet for me to use. I struggled with the overwhelming feeling of wanting to embrace her. To tell her how sorry I was for what she had had to endure. All because she was a Jew (or Jew sympathizer). Finally, after I pulled myself together I left the stall, washed my hands and made intentional eye contact with her as I left. I touched her arm and said, "thank you". She looked up at me with tired, worn eyes. A flicker of surprise crossed her face. She nodded, dropped her gaze and continued her duties.
Our world loves the popular. We love the limelight. We crave the attention of the masses. Accolades, honors, trophies, certificates, financial success are all indicators of our achievements. We love to be around the people who attain those things while the person who quietly goes about "cleaning the toilets" gets very little attention.
The fact of the matter is that every day we have no idea who we may be overlooking. What talent do we miss? What creativity have we pushed aside? What story have we not heard? What have we erroneously assumed?
Even worse is the way we often treat and talk about those ones that are "different". We cast wary glances at the teen who dresses differently. We whisper about the socially backward young adult who just doesn't seem to fit in. We avoid the shy and withdrawn because they just aren't fun. If you knew that that person you avoid has the potential to be a musical genius would you still avoid them? Why?
The CREATOR of the universe came to earth as a humble carpenter's son, was born in a shack, grew up poor and was shunned by most. The world did not recognize who He was. Yet, that didn't change the fact that He WAS GOD.
Are you sure you know who you are overlooking? Are you sure you know what potential and hidden talent you may be writing off just because they don't look, dress or act like you? Are you sure you haven't met the next Mozart, Michael Angelo, Elisabeth Barrett Browning, Steve Wozniack, Pablo Piccaso or Steven Spielberg? Are you sure you wouldn't ignore, avoid or make fun of The Creator if He were to walk among us today? Are you sure?
Are you sure you know?
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