Desiderata - Lent Journal (31/40)

Back in 2002 when I graduated from high school, my grandfather gave me this framed poem, Desiderata, by Max Ehrmann. I let it collect dust until just a few months ago, when I pulled it out and put it where I can see it every day. Right now it's sitting next to my computer on my home office desk, and I'm reading through it tonight while trying to come up with something to write about.

Go placidly amid the noise & haste, & remember what peace there may be in silence.

For the longest time I assumed this referred to my own silence (avoiding conflict), but I think just as valid an interpretation - and potentially more significant - is our need to embrace silence, to find a break from the shouting and constant news from across the globe.

Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity & disenchantment it is perennial as the grass.

My girlfriend and I are continuing to pray together throughout the day, and especially tonight we were encouraging each other to maintain hope. Both of us are frustrated at the uncertainty, at the struggle to find ways to serve and support the local community, at the knowledge that the next three weeks are going to get bad for our hospitals and those who care for people who cannot care for themselves. We all need to cling to love right now.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue & loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. 

Honestly, this afternoon was just hard, and the most recent news out of Georgia has not made things any easier. On a personal level: my son's birthday is next week, and my parents were planning to visit this weekend. At the moment I'm thinking it may be best to not chance it. I'm feeling a bit crushed that they won't be here. I know my son will be as well, though I'm going to try and make the most of it with him - he will bounce back, with a lot of help. I could use some coaching and encouragement myself, to be honest, and no question I need more sleep.

And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Boy, is that a tough nut to swallow at the moment. I'm sure I am not alone in that respect. Lord, I do believe; help my unbelief.

Therefore be at peace with God ... in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

Keep peace with your soul ... it's an effort, but doable. Maintain hope, remind ourselves of the great examples of saints who have gone before us, remember that even this is temporary.

With all its sham, drudgery & broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.

We do live in a beautiful world, and the people in it make it that much more beautiful, if that were possible. The encouragement, strength of resolve, unity and solidarity in the face of disaster is simply breathtaking. We're going to press on and keep struggling for every single life.