Caring

As I was leaving for work I saw my neighbor and asked how he was doing. After a bit of hesitation he replied, "I'm alive." I have noticed his car does not leave its spot for days, and he is likely out of work. We are a nation of people who define self by what we do. Aside from the practical side of working---to pay the bills, work gives us a sense of contributing to the world, of being alive. When we are in the throes of despair we never want to hear what is good about our lives, but being alive is a good upon which we build all other good. Any good, no matter how long it takes in coming, can come our way if we are not present to receive it. In this home called Mother Earth, let's help in any little way possible to make being alive a joyous event for those we meet on the journey.

During this Easter season, let us try to remember that we all have a cross lurking. Some of us feel nailed to it. Some of us are in fear of the shadow it casts. The fortunate few have found resurrection and now live fully no matter the circumstances. Reach out to others in times of crisis. A strong support system is more valuable than any possession. If you perceive that you are nailed, let the strength and compassion of others help you down, wrap you in their love and nurture you until your circumstances change. If it becomes necessary to move into more humble accommodations or to move in with others, practice your daily rituals as much as possible until your full sense of home is again realized. Let us all pray for each other. These times are difficult to understand, but I believe the lessons are innumerable and rich. Fear is paralyzing. Trying to face a crisis alone (ego, pride) helps to feed the fear monster, which keeps us from discovering solutions. Offer a smile and an encouraging word to anyone with whom you interact. It could make the difference in some one's resurrection.