In the last few weeks, we've been stunned repeatedly by tragic news that impacts our serenity and safety. Events --and reactions I've witnessed-- have whirled me around and confounded me with contrasts. Yesterday, in a moment of despair, I lost my ability to "see" beyond my feelings. I wondered what I could do (with a wealth of loving friends) to change the atmosphere enveloping us. I called to my social network, "How can we bring light to the pain, anger, and distrust of the past and present to become stronger and healthier together?" They answered immediately with reminders that peace begins with me. As often happens, I found my center through a *reflection* of it that they offered me. The power of their loving intention stayed with me through the evening and into this morning. My morning inspiration was an affirmation of the energy of differences: In times of confusion, I am balanced and aware. I am open to change. I am secure in my personal well being. I am blessed by opportunities. I respect opinions that live outside my heart. I perceive tension as the essence of new creation. I appreciate differences as a foundation for understanding and growth. Before 7am, I offended a driver behind me by not exercising my option to turn right at a red light when he expected it. He SCREAMED a protracted "GO!!!!!!!" (for a full five seconds) through his open window. I continued to wait until I was secure about the gaps in the 50-60mph traffic. When I turned onto the main road, he whipped around to my left, and flew past another driver on my right. He streaked up the road a quarter mile and stopped at another red light, where we were side by side with each other. For the next two miles, he stayed to the right, drove at the speed limit, and as near as I could tell, continued with no aggression. I rode along to his left; we followed our regular route to the MARC station, as he drove south. I could create a story around his reasons for screaming, racing, and regulating his behaviors. Somehow, whatever balance he regained in a few seconds, between our brief encounter and the next quarter mile, tension initiated a change. Somehow, my choice to respond without escalation affected his conduct and possibly the safety of dozens of others who shared the road. Others encourage me with the statement that chaos precedes creation, in astronomy or in society. If I, as an individual release my "right" way, what I gain is balance with others to build bridges. Today, I'm grateful for awareness and balance in moments of opportunity. 18 July 2016
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AuthorI've been paid to sing, act, paint, teach and write. What I do most to express myself is write. I've self-published four books: poems, essays, stories, and prayers. Archives
December 2016
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