How Ya Livin?

For years I've asked those close to me,"How are you living?" Initially they would give me a safe and surface answer that they were living well and everything was good. I would usually smile and ask again, "How are you living?" At which point they pause and look at me like "what do you mean? I just answered you." -Bear in mind, I only asked this of people to whom I was close and who knew my heart.

Experiences and social norms have groomed us for specific responses and typical actions. But those actions are not always reflective of how we are living. Life is what happens when no one is looking. When I saw the video below, it made me think of these conversations with a beautiful soul named Trish. When we initially had this conversation, she was taken aback by the question but she rolled with it. #warmsmile4Trish  I went on to share that most of life occurs when there is no audience, and in some ways, is a more accurate depiction of how we're living for real.  Our life flows out of us and has an impact on our immediate circle and every circle that connects with it. Do we care how we treat people if no one knows about it? Do we lie and gossip to divert attention from our own (in)action? Are we honest about the (mis)perceptions we hold as it relates to this melting pot we call America? How about our own internal battles and insecurities? Is it even safe to acknowledge or mention?

As many know, I confess the name Jesus and try my utmost to be governed by biblical principles. I rub some the wrong way when I ask questions that are designed to identify how we are really living. And today I am asking, you and I, this very question. We may not be as close as the ones I've asked previously, but in today's climate it is a questions that warrants asking. The responses will vary from, "How dare you?" and "Who do you think you are?" to "Hmm, how am I living?" If your response veers toward the former, I submit to you there may be some contempt influencing the response and it is  difficult to pray God's will over someone or something for which you have contempt. If your response veers toward the latter- kudos for being willing to look but make sure your reflection includes the Holy Spirit (no condemnation).   :)

Here's the thing, I'm not asking how we are doing.  I can wash dishes and still be angry about it, or come to work and hate every minute of it.  I am asking how are  we living? The question is just that- a question.  It is not meant to qualify or disqualify. 
                          That being said ...how are you living?

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