Who Hung the Stars?

They say, “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts” That statement always stumped me, confused me, and made me question. Maybe because math wasn't my forte? So, I looked at it through the lens of language which translated to "amalgamation." The definitions and examples I found of that term turned out to be so sterile and business-like, even from a cultural standpoint, though. I wasn't satisfied.

So, I knew I would have to dig a bit deeper and closer to home to arrive at a sensible conclusion and obtain clarity for my peace of mind. I would have to analyze my life in relation to others. Have others made me my whole? Have they made me greater because of their input?

I quickly determined that would word, "greater," by no means would represent a loftier stance or place of more importance than any "part" I might have been involved with. Each person is a "whole" in my estimation and worthy to be valued. But it made my heart smile a bit to think that my "part" in their whole made them somehow, "greater."

Greater would have to mean, "better" because of.

"Wow," I thought..."just Wow! Was this God's plan all along? Had God decided who and when and why each part (person) would become a puzzle piece in my existence? Was there a purpose being played out that I had been unconsciously unaware of? Was there method in the madness called my life? That would make me feel more secure, somehow. It would be kind of strange and yet beautiful, if you think about it. It made sense.

That would mean my parents would have been "chosen" just for me. In all their human frailties and weaknesses, in the totality of all their history and strengths, I was part of their picture, and they mine. I can clearly see their gifts they gave me to go out into the world. Some gifts from DNA, some from lessons, some from word mantras, some from examples. Yes, even the "bad" made me a better "whole."

Of course, in knowing this new concept, I wondered if I had been the "part" that my children needed. I do see "me" in them and their character, even the hidden parts that hold a secret place reserved only for each one. Loving them has always been easy and they have certainly made me feel loved and "whole."

Each person in my life came bearing gifts. Lovers. Friends. Foes. Teachers. Students I taught. (Even strangers and acquaintances who touched my life through books, the news, in the communities, or in films and plays.)

Each of the parts made me better. Some parts were gritty and difficult, like how pearls get polished. Oh, I've been pearl-polished. And, I can attest to being a pearl-polisher myself, too.

Well, I suppose I am saying that, in the end, I am satisfied that the term, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts is true, in fact. I've needed those gifts and the polishing. And God...I needed Him. Good parts :) I can only hope that when He looks at me, His child, He can see a little of Him, too...otherwise, it's off to find some oysters!

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