Feb. 6: Blind Guide

In the media coverage of activist Chen Guangcheng’s fight to leave his native China for the United States, some focused on his blindness as a key element in that story, while others thought it peripheral.

“His blindness did not give him any particular bravery or insight,” wrote one author.  “It is just a factor in a much larger life.”  Conversely, a journalist saw his lack of sight as “the central fact” of his existence.

Blind from a young age, Guangcheng managed to study law.  His work on behalf of human rights in his homeland—particularly for those persons with disabilities—had landed him in jail, and had him placed under house arrest where he was beaten.  In 2012, he was allowed to move to the United States.

A focus on his blindness aside, it is clear that Guancheng sees clearly what should be important to each one of us: the inherent worth and dignity of every human being.

There is no longer Jew or Greek…there is no longer male or female; for all of you are one in Jesus Christ.  (Galatians 3:28)

All around me, Father, I see the beauty of Your creation.