She reflected on her day and came to the conclusion that she did all the right things a nurse was expected to do, but not once had she ever really looked at any of the people she was helping. Instead, she went about like an automaton from room to room, paying little attention to any of the patients as persons. Tears of sadness flowed at this realization, and my friend resolved from that day onward to deliberately behold each patient with reverence.
The quality of our presence is what counts in the larger sphere of life. Our thoughts, words, and actions can become beautiful icons of the Beloved's benevolence. This love is nurtured in times of prayer and shows in our work and life-events. St. Paul wrote to Timothy: "I remind you to stir into flame the gift of God that you have . . ." (2 Timothy 1:6) We kindle the gifts given in prayer when we allow the flame of love to shine in our life.
— Joyce Rupp, Prayer