´óÏó´«Ã½

Good morning.

Just near the entrance to Greyfriars Kirk is the famous statue of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog who won Edinburgh’s heart in the 19th Century, sleeping each night on his deceased owner’s grave.  It is a story that draws many visitors especially at this time of the year, who like to leave a stick or some other offering by Bobby’s grave in the Kirkyard.

Bobby’s statue is black with the exception of his shiny brass nose which is touched by many hands each day.  Every so often the City Council repaints Bobby and that seems to act as an invitation for all to rub his nose again. Personally, I think he suits his shiny nose!

But what is it about touch that means more than just observing?  This tactile need to make contact, to reach out, to touch.  You see it with many sacred statues – the hands, the feet – rubbed, touched, trusted in some way.

When I think of the moments in life where we try to offer comfort, words only go so far.  But the offer of a gentle hand, a warm embrace says so much more. Of course touch has to be appropriate, but I wonder how much we refrain from the healing touch that helps.

We often think of healing as something miraculous, beyond human experience, yet healing can be a gift that begins simply, offering new beginnings.

Every day there are gentle touches that go a long way.  The generous smile, the helping hand, the friendly hello – all that goes beyond casual observation and invites us instead to get involved. 

Eternal God,

Open our eyes to see, our ears to hear,

Our hearts to feel, our lives to share

Your love each day.  Amen