A virus beyond our control has seized the attention of the world and we are all compelled to pause, to practice social distancing and become virtual in our interactions with each other. We are forced to rest, to think about self-care and practice good health habits, to spend time with our families.
Yes, there is stress and we can drive ourselves into a state of panic watching news reports and following the coronavirus updates on social media. We are incredulous when we go to the grocery store and find the shelves picked clean of food and pandemic supplies like hand sanitizer and Lysol wipes. We may worry that there will not be enough for all when so many have hoarded food and supplies with no regard for the needs of others.
Yet when we spend time in prayer and meditation, we are given the gift of peace. We are comforted with the certain faith that our daily bread will be provided and we will be protected in a seemingly dangerous world. We can reach out to make sure that those who are not able to care for themselves are helped. We can keep praying...something that the world needs now more than ever.
This morning, take a walk, breathe fresh air and be thankful for this pause.
The world is too much
with us; late and soon,
Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers;
Little we see in Nature that is ours;
We have given our hearts away, a sordid boon!
Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers;
Little we see in Nature that is ours;
We have given our hearts away, a sordid boon!
This Sea that bares her bosom to the moon,
The winds that will be howling at all hours,
And are up-gathered now like sleeping flowers,
For this, for everything, we are out of tune...
The winds that will be howling at all hours,
And are up-gathered now like sleeping flowers,
For this, for everything, we are out of tune...
Reclaim nature and time to just be
A timely message the world needs to hear. Thank you for keeping this in perspective.
ReplyDeleteBlessings
Lance
I love your advice about getting outdoors. We should probably all do it more anytime, but especially during this time of social distancing. Thanks for your wise and soothing words.
ReplyDeleteBarb
Thanks! Right on as usual:)
ReplyDeletePlease pray for the isolated... lonely: young or old; angry: rich or poor; sick: cared for by family, no one, or visiting caregivers --- may they show us their strength, their hope, and their acceptance of isolation. They may have insight into keeping the spirit engaged & a closeness with God that we would never find time to learn if not for these difficult circumstances. Listen to them. Patti, thank you for your time and thoughtful insight into the changes our society is facing and how stillness can make us strong.
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