Appearances can deceive; assumptions are made informed by our own prejudices. We process the world through our built-in filters. We judge based on our past experience. It is natural, but it is not necessarily healthy. Today may we begin a practice of discernment. May we suspend our impulses to judge. May we hone our ability to simply take in information, and allow it to percolate before we form an opinion. May we remember that ours is not the only perspective, that the truth we hold is incomplete. This is the foundation for compassion. For thoughtful response we give thanks. Blessed Be, and Amen.