Of all the wonderful characters Dr. Seuss has created, my very favorite is Horton the Elephant. Horton is such a kind and compassionate character. I think we all could learn a lot from Horton.
The book I want to read to you is called "Horton Hears a Who!" At the beginning of the story, Horton was splashing around in a cool jungle pool when he heard a small voice crying for help. He looked all around, but he did not see anyone. All he saw was a tiny speck of dust floating through the air. Horton realized that there was someone on that speck of dust who was calling for help. As it turned out, there was a whole town of people on that little speck of dust. They were calling out for help because they were afraid that the speck of dust would fall into the pool of water and they would drown. Even though they were so small that he couldn't even see them, Horton made up his mind that he was going to help them. "After all," he said, "A person's a person, no matter how small."
All of the other animals in the jungle thought Horton was crazy. First, a kangaroo, then some monkeys, and finally an eagle all made fun of Horton for wanting to help the people on the speck of dust. Why, they even tried to put Horton in a cage.
Even though none of the other animals would help him, Horton refused to give up. He remained faithful to the task of saving the tiny people who needed his help. Because of his faithfulness, the tiny people were saved and finally, the other animals realized that just as Horton had said, "A person's a person, no matter how small."
Jesus has told us to love our neighbor. If you have trouble knowing who your neighbor is, just remember the story of "Horton Hears a Who!" and the story of the Good Samaritan -- then you will know that every person is your neighbor and "A neighbor's a neighbor, no matter how small!"
An example of a neighbor, no matter how small is my next door neighbor, Maggie. She called last night and asked if we could pick up some chocolate milk and root beer barrels candies, these are her favorite treats. Yes, she has Medicaid that provides transportation, yes RTS in Genesee County provides transportation if you call a day ahead by 6am. You can get a ride for three dollars one way, and yes there Susan and Fr. Matt who she will call “first” when in need of groceries or a ride to her doctor’s office. What does it mean to be neighbor, our response is always: “when do you want us to come.”
Lord, I pray for all my Sonshine Friends who are caregivers to the “little ones.” The world needs more Good Samaritans. I pray that the Lord will inspire you to love and live differently and be a Good Samaritan to all your neighbors.
