Sep 30 2024
A note on the hurricanes and floods
I made the mistake of waking up and sending out the Rumi poem this morning without first glancing at the news — and therefore I made no mention of the terrible flooding and devastation in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
And I should also acknowledge of the escalating violence by and around Israel, now directed against Lebanon. The likelihood of a regional war increases with each new provocation.
These sorts of terrible and terrifying events remind us that we can no longer take old certainties and securities for granted. We have little choice but to turn inward for our meaning and security, while outwardly becoming more flexible, dynamic, and, where possible, be willing to help.
I am sending love and blessings to all of you and your loved ones.
All good and it’s concerning and scary what the world is coming to… I hope everyone stays safe and blessed.
I wrote a poem in response:
“I am Home”
A space of awe and horror blend
Humanity’s harm and healing mend
Sorrow and serenity felt in the same moment
As Alone in One and with a Friend
Mystery mystifies meaninglessness
I choose to breathe today
Not everyone has this choice
Separate we are not
Yet powerless we may feel
The pain the fortunate ones are left to feel
What is Real
Confusion and peace
Clarity and chaos
A ripple and a waterfall
We are all swimming in it
May I remain to choose to breathe
Use my heart to love and feel peace
For the sake of our shared atmosphere
We all belong
We deserve to breathe
Thank you for your sensitivity at all levels, and your ending comment about our inner resilience during these challenging times.
We have little choice but to turn inward for our meaning and security, while outwardly becoming more flexible, dynamic, and, where possible, be willing to help.
Very well said Ivan – sums it all up — the strength that we need is within us.
there is one certainty that the Lord who has created us is ever watching us. Though He too must be saddened by how we are running against each other – His benevolence cannot be underestimated. It is His strength that is within all of us that is giving some semblance of sanity even in this insanity.
Thank you for your words of wisdom