This story, written by an unknown author, makes an important point to us all—“be kinder than necessary.” It was first posted on Perspective in November, 2018, repeated in September, 2019, and remains a favorite among our readers. It seems good to begin summer 2021 with a repeat of this meaningful story. Please share this story and others on Perspective with your friends. Subscribe for “Insider Access”: https//www.wardtanneberg.com/blog/.

 

THE SOUND OF A BELL

 

Just up the road from my home is a field, with two horses in it. From distance, each horse looks like any other horse. But if you stop your car, or are walking by, you will notice something quite amazing.

Looking into the eyes of one horse will disclose that he is blind. His owner has chosen not to have him put down, but has made a good home for him. This alone is amazing. But if you stand nearby and listen, you will hear the sound of a bell. Looking around for the source of the sound, you will see it comes from the smaller horse in the field.

Attached to the horse’s halter is a small bell. It lets the blind friend know where the other horse is, so he can follow. As you stand and watch these two friends, you’ll see the horse with the bell is always checking on the blind horse, and the blind horse will listen for the bell, then slowly walk to where the other horse is, trusting that he will not be led astray.

When the horse with the bell returns to the shelter of the barn each evening, it stops occasionally and looks back, making sure the blind friend isn’t too far behind to hear the bell.

 

Like the owners of these two horses, God does not throw us away just because we are not perfect or because we have problems or challenges!

He watches over us and even brings others into our lives to help us when we are in need. Sometimes we are the blind horse being guided by the ringing bell of those whom God places in our lives. At other times we are the guide horse, helping others find their way.

Good friends are like that. You may not always see them, but you know they are always there. Please, listen for my bell and I’ll listen for yours.

And be kinder than necessary—everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

Live simply,
Love generously,
Care deeply,
Speak kindly.

FOR WE WALK BY FAITH, NOT BY SIGHT[1]

[1] 2 Corinthians 5:7