This weekend the United States celebrates its declaration of independence from Great Britain, made in 1776. An event that is, as all historical events are, a mix of hopefulness, exclusion, ethnocentrism, positivity and harm, progress and potential. We acknowledge this mix with humility and dedication to rise to the promises made. We can also focus … Continue reading The thing about independence
love
Focus
If, like me, you are having a hard time focusing this week, I offer this: Focus on the love made visible around you; Focus on the birds swooping in the wind; Focus on the willingness of so many to stand for change; Focus on the first blossom on a pea vine; Focus on all the … Continue reading Focus
Opposites
On a day we heard of a terrible milestone of losses in our country due to the pandemic, can we feel anything but sorrow? This morning, on a walk in this beautiful valley, sun shining and birds singing, I pondered the invitations we receive, all too often, to divide ourselves from one another. It occurred … Continue reading Opposites
Our memories of this time
This weekend in the United States, we take an extra day off work to honor those who died in military service. "Memorial" - the name calls out our intention to use our memories in this way. Memory looks backward, brings the past into the present, brings those lost into our immediate awareness, and makes them … Continue reading Our memories of this time
We are here
In the face of overwhelming loss Loss of life and livelihood, of routine, of expectation We find it so hard to turn inward, and remember: We are here. We are one. We are here. **** The little poem above came to me this morning, after a(nother) night of "pandemic dreaming." I share it today, along … Continue reading We are here
Doubling up
Yes, starting tomorrow, at our house we'll be doubling up on working from home. I teach and manage an academic program at our local university. My hours are flexible, and I have taught online for years - so I feel pretty lucky compared to many. My sweetheart works a facilities maintenance job on campus. His … Continue reading Doubling up
Reframing
Change is tough, even when it's good. When change comes from outside our control and forces us out of our routines, we can easily feel overwhelmed. Overwhelmed people are sometimes tempted to deny or minimize the source of their worries. We all do this, at times. So today I talked to a friend who is … Continue reading Reframing
The work of love
Celebrating the work of Dr. King, and the work of love.
Peace and Love
July 7 - Ringo Starr's birthday, and his annual birthday wish: at noon your time, wish everyone around you "peace and love." Needed now as much as it ever has been. https://youtu.be/Euqxgv7To-U
Granny Power
On Mother's Day, celebrate granny power.
