I’ve always been a lover of the underdog. Social class holds no bearing. I cheer for the less fortunate. I’d rather encourage than cast aspersions.
I believe my tendency to root for society’s “forgotten” influenced my decision to enter a helping profession many years ago. Seeing the invisible without regard to who they were, where they’d come from, or where others predicted they were headed held no influence.
Being older and wiser now, of course, I realize there are situations that are horrible. Some circumstances may never change. There are people who are evil and morally corrupt.
Today, I’m talking more about those who lack empathy. Those who deliberately ignore the wounded than help shoulder their burden.
Perhaps you may remember the movie Pursuit of Happyness (the film’s spelling) with Will Smith. If you’ve never seen the film, I would highly recommend it. Based on the true story of Chris Gardner, a salesman who suffers countless hard knocks in his quest to get ahead, it’s a movie that will definitely leave you cheering for the underdog.
There’s a particularly poignant scene where Chris and his son resort to spending the night on a dirty, dingy restroom floor because they’ve run out of money and have nowhere else to go. Will Smith is magnificent as he portrays Chris Gardner’s range of emotions without saying a word. In an instant, the depth of emotion is brilliantly captured as the camera pans to Smith’s face.
Heartbreak.
Fear.
Humiliation.
Resignation.
But still…determination to do whatever it takes to care for his child and eventually make a better life.
In the movie (and during those early years of the real Chris Gardner’s life) there are tremendous obstacles that Gardner must overcome. There were people who turned a blind eye and a deaf ear to his plight, and finally, blessedly, some who helped.
In my life, I’ve resolved to do whatever I can to make a difference.
I may be just one.
I might lack endurance.
My strength may ebb.
I may falter.
I might even fail.
People may laugh.
But I will try.
I will:
- Offer a smile.
- Pay it forward.
- Encourage.
- Listen.
- Be kind.
- Extend courtesy.
- Pray.
I came across a simply awesome blog post last week that moved me to tears. The post is by “Ashlee.” Read and be inspired.
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Do you rally against injustice?
Has there ever been a situation where you’ve been called to take a stand?
How have you resolved to make a difference?
Photo Credit: chrisroll/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Blessings Always,
Comments 10
I’ve been an underdog, and always root for them. Lovely post, Cindy.
Author
Loree, I’ve always sensed such a deep compassion about you. Our empathy tends to reach farther when we’ve been where others trod.
Well, I can’t help but talk about my day job. I work for a Christ-centered homeless ministry–the largest privately funded provider of services for those who are homeless in my state. So, yes, I believe in my life I rally against injustice.
BUT…and there’s always a but…it’s so easy to get frustrated in my job, to feel bogged down, etc. It’s the nature of nonprofit work. I wish I could remember more often how I cried when I drove back from my first interview here–the hurt in my heart as I thought about the people in need of this ministry’s services. If I could remember that more often, maybe I wouldn’t get so frustrated by spreadsheets and monthly reports and piles of work that never seem to get done. 🙂
Author
Melissa, ohhh the dreaded spreadsheets and reports! How well I remember that part of my previous job from years ago. While I railed against injustice and the harsh realties of the unsavory side of life, the paperwork aspect alone created a barrier for some of my clients to get the help they really needed. A double-edged sword to be sure.
You have such a sweet, spiritual nature that I know God is using you in a mighty way to minister to souls who are hurting. And sometimes, He redirects our ministry toward new avenues where we might be an even bigger kingdom-influencer.
Ah, another reason to like you. Another reason to respect you.
Yeah, I like the underdog too, Cynthia.
And I’ve been the underdog. Probably will be again sometime.
Author
Beth, I think when we’ve been the underdog, it certainly puts things into perspective. Thanks for your kind words–you humble me.
I adore you, Cindy! I love your generous heart. I am passionate about Project Rescue, that helps free trafficked girls. I would say I rally for them as much as I can and hope to do more in the future.
I’ve always felt like an underdog…still do. 🙂
Author
Jess, Project Rescue is a tremendous ministry. We should all have a passion for the helpless and hurting. You have a tender, beautiful heart.
I have volunteered, and taken a stand for the unborn. I also cheer for the underdog…every so often, they win, and that is satisfying.
Author
Patti, what a wonderful cheerleader you are!
Protecting the unborn will always be a noble cause.