Step 11: Part Two – Recognition
Recognition ~ Reconciler ~ Reconciliation
After I completed several readings of Step 11, I was walking around repeating the word recognition to myself, then I heard myself saying reconciliation and then saying reconciler. I paused and comprehended that this was a pathway enlightening me to journey in a world that needs us as recognizers, reconcilers and facilitators of reconciliation.
Recognition calls us to not only look at the other, but also ourselves and the world. Recognition also urges us to, as Karen Armstrong says, “. . . look at the world anew and do not leave this step until you have chosen your mission. There is a need that you – and only you – can fulfill.” How many of us truly believe that there is a need only ‘I’ can fulfill? Let’s try it, clothing ourselves with loving kindness and compassion and – LOOK! SEARCH! RISK! Is there something or somewhere calling us, waiting for us?
Recognition makes us aware of not only global suffering but also national and local suffering. Recognition now has a deeper meaning of feeling compassion in the depths of our hearts for other people’s pain. One of my recognitions focuses on a need that breaks my heart – the suffering of children worldwide – hunger, homelessness, abandonment, lack of childcare, abuse, trafficking, are some of the problems.
One of my missions in life has been concern for children. Together with praying for children, I care for them by donating, when possible, to children’s groups. We all know our future depends on today’s children worldwide, for they are tomorrow’s leaders for a World Community of Peace and Justice.
Finally, recognition brings us to the realization that meditation is important, as we are called to be reconcilers and sowers of reconciliation. The gift of meditation provides the internal support needed in the give and take required for positive relationships with others. Some may not have the same belief systems that we do, others may disagree with our values and vision. Yet it is ours to be healers of division in the World as reconcilers and sowers of reconciliation.
Henrita Frost, SSND
