Take Heart – We’re gonna get through this
Is the news getting you down? Me too. We need a way to remember that this is not all there is. That the world keeps turning. The sun is shining and the birds are singing.
Current Events keep on happening
When I started writing this piece, I had a particular current event in mind that was causing me stress. In just a few days, there were more happenings closer to home that were even more upsetting. I’ve been reminded of my personal history. I recall as a child seeing the headlines about the start of the Vietnam War, and fearing that the war could come to our shores. And years later, learning that some of my high school friends died there. And then the unforgettable experience of watching the Twin Towers fall Sept. 11, 2001 on live TV. Most of these things only touch us indirectly, but they seem to be getting closer and closer.
Where is our Equilibrium?
When all our expectations of what is normal get turned upside down, we need a way to regain our equilibrium. One of my favorite ways to re-center is to go outside, or at least stare out the window, and watch the clouds as they move ever so slowly across the sky.
Where we live, the clouds usually move from west to east. I sometimes watch to see how long it takes a certain cloud to make its way across my window. For me, this is a gentle way to unplug and find peace. I also take time to give thanks for the miracle of the clouds and the rain they bring, and the whole Water Cycle that nourishes the planet.
I think about how high those clouds actually are, and how small my little world looks from their perspective. For ages, people have found peace by looking for recognizable shapes in clouds. If that’s fun for you, go for it. Maybe take some photos so you can revisit your peaceful experience.
Please share your own peaceful habits
What do you do when life gets overwhelming? Please share in the comments your own practices to find peace. Here are two helpful verses to meditate on.
Isaiah 43:12 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.
Isaiah 54:10 For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
Mark R. Turner
Thank you, Donna. This guidance from your compassion brings tears of thankfulness to my eyes. Keep reminding us how to proceed in this world that seems to gravitate toward cruel darkness. — Mark