THIS IS THE MOMENT

Several events from this week have prompted today’s reflection…

On this day the sunshine and blue skies are dimmed by the smoke from the Canadian forest fires. I know everyone is deeply concerned for those who are more directly affected: firefighters, animals and habitats, people in surrounding areas, those in poor health. We grieve the immense devastation and exhausting battle.

And earlier, Jim and I learned that a friend had passed from ovarian cancer. She and I had exchanged calls and texts during her months of treatment, as I offered tips and encouragement from my own experience. Over a year ago, she happily texted that she was cancer-free. But last week, she gently informed me that she was entering hospice care.

I had also been journaling about this retirement phase of my life. I’m no longer serving in any leadership role but in smaller, less visible ways. I hope that I’m enabling others to shine, as I help my family, tend our home, connect with friends, and write words of encouragement or comfort. I recently noted my peace and contentment in this quieter life.

Then I learned that our county commissioners were considering an ordinance that clearly targeted the LGTBQIA+ community after a recent Pride event. I could no longer remain behind the scenes, prompted once again to speak publicly of honoring everyone in God’s beautifully diverse creation. The ordinance passed anyway. But as I walked to my car afterward, several folks thanked me, some in tears, for speaking up in love and support for them.

The week reminds me that life is fragile and unpredictable. We will continue to be surprised, grieved, wounded, and challenged by our world, daily living, and one another.

But we have the certainty and availability of this very moment.

This is the moment for us to care, immediately and compassionately.
This is the moment for us to speak, courageously and truthfully.
This is the moment for us to act, selflessly and kindly.
This is the moment for us to unite, lovingly and humbly.
This is the moment for us to love, universally and lavishly.
This is the moment for us to live, faithfully and generously.

This is the moment to help one another through this difficult yet wondrous, hurtful yet beautiful, uncertain yet glorious life.

(Photo by Karen)