Kinfolk are usually considered to be members of one’s family—no matter how distant the relative. What makes kinfolk kinfolk is that we share a common ancestor.
From a theological perspective, since we are all created by God in God’s image, that makes the circle of kinfolk beyond our measure of imagination. It would seem, to me, we are all kinfolk.
My best friend and are on a lark to Bentonville, Arkansas, to one of our favorite museums, Crystal Bridges. Annie Lebowitz is the guest artist in residence, and we are here for her exhibit.
Last night we drove to Fayetteville for a one night showing of A Case for Love. It has a definite Episcopal presence (and funding) and is inspired by the words of Presiding Bishop Curry. It invites people to do intentional acts of love for thirty days. Perhaps that could mean thirty days of looking at and treating all we meet as kinfolk—in loving ways.
I’m walking this lark in a mindfully loving way—or trying to do so. Beginning the practice in this place of smiles and unabashed friendliness makes it an easier start. It’s also easier to take a little more time to kindly respond to people when on a slow time trip—travels no further than the hotel to coffee to the museum. Most of that is done by walking, so that all makes the connection easier.
To paraphrase a common phrase, I’m doing my best to take the loving way by walking—eyes open for kinfolk along the way.
House of Grace 