'Someone ought to do something about that!' We can probably remember times when we have been outraged at the actions, beliefs, or lifestyles of other people. We might have felt the urge to intervene and force them to change their ways and see things the "correct" way - our way! Wise rabbi Gamaliel advises us to wait. Things are not always as they seem. If we are too hasty and zealous, we might find ourselves fighting against God. Wait and see, he counsels. If it is of God, it will thrive
if not, it will collapse on its own accord. Tolerance and patience are not just mere virtues, but are also sound spiritual principles. Allow others the right to be who they are and to find their own way. Offer advice if asked for. Who knows, they just might be right. And if not, perhaps we will at least learn something from them. When we are warned in the Gospels not to judge, the main reason is that we are so often wrong in our judgments.

It is easy to focus on the negative and on what we don't have. The apostles failed the little test Jesus gave them. He asked them to feed the crowd, and they were overwhelmed at the number of people and what they perceived to be their own limited resources. Jesus blessed the loaves and fishes, and more importantly, gave thanks. Gratitude and thanksgiving are also spiritual powers.