Crushed Shells

During this afternoon’s beach walk, I noticed footprints that attempted to crush each intact shell in their path.  Remnants of shattered shells lay in the pattern this person had left behind.  I wondered by someone would knowingly crush the whole shells, but then realized sometimes I do the same thing.  I see people’s success or happiness and try to undercut it in my jealousy, resenting their achievements over mine.  Why should they succeed, I wonder, when I have failed?  Help me, Heavenly Father, to remember through Christ we are all one body.  The success of my brothers or sisters is my success too; their share in my joy is equal.  May I walk with you, Lord, careful not to crush the achievements and the happiness of others.  May I tread alertly and lovingly all my days. Amen.