If you have not read the book THEO OF GOLDEN, I highly recommend it. In several recent blog posts, I discussed the book and its many examples of lessons to be learned.1,2 It reminds us of the power of sharing our common humanity for an elevated purpose using generosity and empathy. Is it too Hallmark channel-ish or too syrupy to be believable? I would argue no. It shows us the good and the bad in our society but there is no doubt in my mind that the good triumphs and is a roadmap for how we can channel our actions in similar ways.
One of the more poignant scenes features the main character, Theo, and a homeless woman, Ellen, whom he has befriended. Ellen has finally established a trusting relationship with Theo. One Sunday morning, she sought him out at a local church. But her entrance to the service was anything but quiet. Wearing very different attire from the usual church attire, she was bringing her bike, the so-called “Nobel Invention” and her constant companion, into the sanctuary. This effort was rejected by the usher and quite a scene ensued. Voices were raised, the police were called, and the congregants were bemused. Finally, a woman who recognized Ellen from her volunteer work at the homeless shelter and Theo were able to quell the commotion. The priest used this incident as a teaching moment – the sign outside read, “Visitors Welcome,” and the congregation was just tested as to the veracity of its message.
Now, my THEO OF GOLDEN moment. This week, my wife and I attended a brass concert in our church that was quite moving in many ways with a combination of sacred and secular music. It was advertised as free. About halfway through the first set, a man with obviously worn clothing and carrying a bag pranced up the center aisle with great fanfare and took a seat in the front pew. He did not say anything, but his entrance could not go unnoticed. The brass ensemble was undeterred and continued their flawless performance.3 Depending on the piece being played, our new visitor would wave his arms in the air, gyrate his torso, wave the bible in the air and even stand up at times. He was obviously moved by the music and actively engaged in his way.
What did I do as this was occurring? I was nervous and wondered what would happen. I was distracted and even annoyed. He was making it difficult for me to concentrate on the music and the performers. And then I realized several things – this young man was thoroughly into the music, he was welcome here in the house of worship, it was a free concert, and I had no idea of the circumstances that he faces outside the church. I was in that church and listening to that concert in that place and time to learn tolerance and compassion. He left at intermission and did not return. I hope that he enjoyed the performance and that he had adequate shelter and nurturing outside of the church.
Tim Zimmerman and the King’s Brass
How did I do in this THEO OF GOLDEN moment? Being honest, I would grade my reactions as adequate. My initial responses of distraction and annoyance, while natural, indicated to me that I needed to be more accepting, especially in this sanctuary. Ellen brought her bike into the church in THEO OF GOLDEN with ensuing turmoil while eventually calm prevailed. This young man, whatever his reason for attending this concert, was welcome here and I needed to adopt such a posture. I eventually did but only after a period of time that was too long in retrospect.
Perhaps this man’s visit also served as a lesson for me. It is easy at times to read books and project on how I would respond in certain situations. I always hope that I will do the right thing, but you never know until the situation occurs for you. My response to this THEO OF GOLDEN moment was adequate but needed improvement. My instruction continues. Thank you, Lord.
- https://mychildrenschildren.com/are-we-responsible/
- https://mychildrenschildren.com/an-end-with-a-future/
- My thanks to Tim Zimmerman and the King’s Brass for their excellence, professionalism and calm demeanor (http://www.kingsbrass.org)