Property and Stewardship
Step into my mind for a moment.
There's a thought that's been swirling around.
Then take a step way, WAY back.
I keep thinking of the words "property" and "stewardship."
This place where I live has a home and some land.
Although it is "my property," I can't help but think I am simply a steward of it.
It's normal to think of property as something we own.
Individually and collectively.
But I've started to rethink that idea.
Most things we "own" are really things we care for temporarily.
Like this home and this land.
Or this body or our responsibilities.
Put your eyes on this for a moment.
Let me know what you think.
Do you see what I'm seeing?
Am I overthinking this?
Or is this something?
I think I'm not, and that it is.
I have been given a trust.
Or perhaps I've worked to be in this position.
Either way, I have property of which I am a steward.
The first time I ever heard of stewardship was in church.
Being aware that we've been given gifts.
Being responsible to give back a portion.
I'm starting to think this is flawed logic.
Because what do we really possess?
Ultimately, all we have is temporary access.
To these bodies we inhabit.
As well as these homes, our communities, and this world.
They are precious and deserve our care, but we are merely stewards.
Until someone else comes along, our is to care.
Ours is to steward over the property in our care.
Not to own or possess, but to appreciate the access.
And I do.
And am.
Grateful.
For this property, personal and collective.
For this opportunity to be a steward.
Do you see it?
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