Focolare spirituality defines seven areas of life, each a way of expressing love. Nothing is more or less important, more or less sacred. “Love is light,” Chiara Lubich explains. When clear light passes through a prism, or even a drop of water, it refracts into the seven colors of the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. And just as that light breaks into different colors, love too has a way of expressing itself in just as many ways.
Love radiates.
Love can’t close in on itself – it naturally spreads like fire. When this lifestyle is authentic and genuine, it can positively influence all our relationships. It catches on.
So living Focolare spirituality usually ends up with it being shared with others. Most people hear about the global community through word of mouth, not through some huge marketing machine or campaign. It’s a culture all its own, and you need to experience it personally.
So “orange” is about outreach. When love refracts like light into “orange,” it shines on these parts of life:
- Our relationships
- Outreach to those around us
- Sharing our stories
- Marketing
- Showing how unity can be experienced
The best way to get to know about Focolare is to talk to someone who lives its spirituality, or to experience its giving culture in a Mariapolis.
What this means to me
At school, we have disabled children. Most students think they are weird and don’t ever talk to them or help them.
One day in technology class, two disabled children needed help on their computer. The lady that normally helps them was paying attention to other disabled students.
I decided to be the first to love and help them on their computers. They really appreciated it. Now I say “hi” to them every day, compliment their clothes, or do anything to put a big smile on their faces.
I have set an example for other kids too. One boy in my class now helps them and says “hi” to them. Two girls in my class play with them at recess. I feel that I really brightened their lives at school.
— C. R.
(Read more stories like this one in Living City Magazine)