I’m having a hard time reconciling. We had a lovely dinner out last night, taking advantage of an anniversary gift certificate from our kids. My oldest brother is celebrating the start of a new decade. I have nice neighbors...
I love this Betsy. Written eloquently from the heart. I, too, have been dipping my toes in the mucky lagoon. There's so much suffering and injustice, especially now in Ukraine. But, a thought about praying for mercy and grace without abdicating action.
I believe it's a leap of faith, and though still doesn't make me feel any better at the moment, I still pray and God presents ME with action needed. Sometimes it's small, other times a bigger commitment. But it's clear who's sending me the opportunity. And I try to take it.
If we miss the one presented today, He will present us another one tomorrow. I guarantee it.
I know this to be true, Nancy, though the tendency among us for a hit and run with thoughts and prayers is all too likely. Thanks for sharing your heart. <3
Oh, Elizabeth, I love these short pieces. What a wonderful economy of words and straightforward poignancy you have. It's really delightful. I am added to your legions of readers!
This makes me wonder what nature and its creatures think of us. We who are the ones with a developed brain.
Nightbirde - such talent gone way too soon.
If they think of us at all, I imagine the response is a whole lot of eye rolling. Except for the beautiful souls like Nightbirde.
I love this Betsy. Written eloquently from the heart. I, too, have been dipping my toes in the mucky lagoon. There's so much suffering and injustice, especially now in Ukraine. But, a thought about praying for mercy and grace without abdicating action.
I believe it's a leap of faith, and though still doesn't make me feel any better at the moment, I still pray and God presents ME with action needed. Sometimes it's small, other times a bigger commitment. But it's clear who's sending me the opportunity. And I try to take it.
If we miss the one presented today, He will present us another one tomorrow. I guarantee it.
Much love to you Betsy, and please keep writing!
I know this to be true, Nancy, though the tendency among us for a hit and run with thoughts and prayers is all too likely. Thanks for sharing your heart. <3
As I have for 50 years.....I love your words..I love that the warm feelings you stir in my spirit, dance with the joy in my living..
Thank you for your faith, Barry. In all the ways it manifests.
This is so beautiful, Elizabeth. I'm so glad I found you here on Substack. I needed this. You probably knew that. Thank you.
Glad to be able to support one another as we grapple with what we can do to help those with the most critical need.
Here are a couple of additional links that you may want to consider (I hope links are permissible?)
LINK to a reputable organization for donations to Ukraine: https://www.facebook.com/donate/337101825010055/10228442423032644/
And, LINK to a copy of a piece you may have seen before by Clarissa Pinkola Estés that never loses its potency.
We Were Made for These Times
https://www.reddit.com/r/infj/comments/4r3n7s/we_were_made_for_these_times_by_clarissa_pinkola/
Thank you. This is your page. You can link any time you want! I'll check out both of them.
Oh, Elizabeth, I love these short pieces. What a wonderful economy of words and straightforward poignancy you have. It's really delightful. I am added to your legions of readers!
Much gratitude, Stew, for the affirming feedback and willingness to join this new community. Can't wait to learn more about your own writing project!