The Divine in Discouragement
Where is the Divine in discouragement, fear, and sadness?
Last week, after the Capitol building had been invaded, someone asked me how things were for me, and before I could engage my brain, my mouth replied that I was fearful and sad. Although there are many wonderful aspects of my life for which I am grateful, there is this deep sense of emptiness and despair that has been building for a long time. The January 6, 2021 event of national violence and hatred have taken me to an even more tender place of hurt.
When I experience the Divine, I engage the concept of truth. My relationship with God is my own truth, but may not be your truth. I accept that as part of the mystery. But in our America, I have seen the concept of truth twisted to sicken our country and the world. Kindness and grace no longer drive our national spirit and seem so absent. So where is the Divine in our everyday lives in times of massive pandemic deaths, government upheaval, and treacherous violence at our doorstep?
Sometimes, becoming grounded in something that is a powerful image helps me. I look at the lone fisherman in the picture here to perhaps seek a message. He is standing in the water. (In my book, PRESENCE, you will explore that in many literary works water can be the symbol for the mind of God). He isn't on the edge or on the shore, he is all in that water.
He is casting out into that mind of God with a rod and line -- he isn't just standing there only thinking about it or only hoping, he is doing something.
Even as grey and desolate as his surroundings, he is standing in the Light (the Light represents the presence of God) surrounding him.
What if we all step into the presence of the Divine as represented by the fisherman in the water? What will we cast out into the water? What are we seeking to catch? Will that make a difference -- what will our intentions be? What if we stand in the Light of God, even in the murkiness of what surrounds us?
What else does this photo represent to you? Where do you see God's PRESENCE? Take some contemplative time to ponder on this picture and open yourself to listening for a loving voice that whispers gentle help.
These types of questions will form our discussions in the amazing classes starting on Zoom February 16, 2021. If this intrigues you, join us for PRESENCE the Class. Learn more and register now.
