“The universe is one of God’s thoughts” – Friedrich Schiller
What we do with our universe is obviously up to us. It’s only Monday, and yet the horrors on the news – from the unimaginable nightmare in Aurora, Colorado to the violence in Syria; the relentless crisis in Darfur to the inhuman treatment of young girls as part of a social ethos in some areas in the Middle East (and elsewhere). The abuse of children and animals, the disregard for the after care of mentally ill adults who have fallen victim to the mass de-institutionalization efforts in our own country. This list is not exhaustive and arguably doesn’t approach all that one can look upon with despair and impotence.
And I sit here in defiance, for I believe that free will is the distinction of our species. We can choose to shake our heads in sorrow and disbelief and go on about our day, or we can shake our heads emphatically and opt for the better part of our humanity. My commitment this week is to focus my posts on the magic of this world of ours, the moments when laughter and love are the universal chorus. This week I am going to celebrate our similarities and learn more about our areas of difference.
I received a note from a friend of mine today, referring to our budding friendship as a ‘gift from the angels’. It was a moment in an otherwise aggravating day involving a slashed tire, unresponsive roadside assistance dispatchers and a perilous drive to the dealership on a doughnut that looked like it could barely hold its own for two miles let alone twenty. Waiting on the side of a hot highway, trucks and cars passing too closely and quickly – a good Samaritan who came by after an hour and half and graciously helped me out (note to self – learn to change a tire). His kindness erased my irritation (but not my sweat which was a bit unpleasant for us both I think). I asked him what made him stop and he just shrugged and said that ‘this is why we’re here’. Messages from angels if we pay attention. I’m learning to listen to their words, and believe that they’re hanging out waiting for a little thank you and acknowledgement.
For friendship and love, laughter and forgiveness, faith in ourselves and in each other is a hallmark of who we are. And perhaps it is during these darker days which promulgate so much disbelief and anger, that we are most responsible for staring it down with its most wondrous corollary. Loving with a spirit that is unbowed, and humbled by the simple goodness that we can bring forward everyday.
Waiting for the Karma Truck 