There is so much to feel right now, I am overwhelmed. Outrage, despair, sadness, fear… you don’t have to read much past the front page headlines to find all of that. And to know that people are hurting.
I do love the Wendell Berry poem about going and lying in the field for a little while. Stepping away from the brokenness, away from the minute-to-minute news cycle, away from the corruption and greed, the destruction and violence that I can not make sense of.
I also think of a line from David Whyte’s well-known poem, Sweet Darkness:
Much of what is hurting the world is out of my direct control. I can add my voice; I can stand up for what I believe is right, but this is not the same as direct control.
On the other hand, I do have control over my inner landscape and my inner dialogue. I can ask myself, “where is it hurting?” and “what do I need in this moment?” I can bring warmth and compassion to my own broken places. And just sit for a while.
I can notice and acknowledge the blessings within and how they fill my heart with love and gratitude.
Love and gratitude flow from my heart, and I am awash in the peace and fullness of being.
And now, as I walk through my day, that peace accompanies me. I like to imagine that I am leaving a trail as I go - peaceful footprints for a world in need.
What do you need in this moment? What is the impact of acknowledging that need, of sitting with it for a few moments?
Jessica Curtis is a professional coach who helps people cultivate intention and live from a place of meaning and authenticity. If you think you could benefit from working with Jessica or want to invite her to work with your group, reach out to start a conversation. |