Have you ever started to create a new dish for supper only to realize it wasn’t going to be salvageable unless you did some “thinking out of the box”?
Have you ever created a greeting card or a painting or a sketch or some jewellery or … and discovered it was a mess and you were going to have to “think out of the box” to salvage/redeem/fix it – or discard it?
What about those times when … well, fill in your own blanks.
I’d been playing with art deco roses inspired by Charles Rennie Macintosh lately, and decided I was ready to turn ‘practicing’ into ‘making’ a card. I had fun making it, but when I stepped-back and looked at it, I realized that it was cluttered. It looked terrible. Really – a mess. So I put it on the mantle and looked at it from various angles.
And then I realized – because of the design of the card, I could “cut” out the bottom right hand corner of the card. But then what? What a strange-looking card that would be.
So I began to extend my thoughts ‘outside the box’ and realized that I could write something on the inside of the card that would be visible from the front of the card. I’m sure others have intentionally created such a card, but I’d not ever seen one, so it was a new possibility for me.
But I wasn’t finished. What would I do with the image that was on the front of the card that was making the card look so cluttered? I could discard it … or I could cut out the image and put it on the inside of the card.
So I cut – and cut – and cut … reducing the original ‘mess’ until all I was left with was a single rose and a little bit around it.
At first, I was sure that the card was going to be discarded, but then the thought came to me: “I think it’s now salvageable.” And that got me thinking again.
Thinking about other things: artwork, sewing projects, meals, political situations and yes, even personal relationships .. things, situations and relationships which, at first glance I think need to be discarded. But maybe – not completely?
The world is in chaos around a variety of issues – like the environment. Are there ways politicians can “think outside the box” … and help create possibilities of life for future generations? Or is the world and its inhabitants going to disappear?
When it comes to personal life how often do we keep our self-critical voice alive with “this is a mess” – “this isn’t salvageable” – “this is …” type of thinking when it comes to our personal relationships?
And what can be done about it when we find ourselves in such situations?
Working on the card, I was reminded (again) … do not give up … consider possibilities … think ‘beyond-beyond’ – aka “think out of the box.”
Another day – another lesson learned. And this time, a simple handmade greeting card became my teacher.
Some days, it seems as if the “rising-waters-of-life” are too much, and there’s nothing we can do.
I remember one such time well. My place of employment was vandalized – again. This time, the vandals pushed a hose through the window of the bathroom in my office, turned on the faucet and disappeared. I wasn’t in the office when it happened but came back in, moments later as the water poured into my office. I could feel the stress rising within me.
That experience has become an apt image for me over the years of those “rising-waters-of-life” times when exterior circumstances are such that I feel flooded-with-stress.
What about you? Can you relate to an experience – in the past? What about now?
Are the personal ‘waters of your life’ rising? Are personal stressors of health, finances, relationships, pummelling your emotional inner shores? Is anger, depression, exhaustion, grief, worry about your future/that of a loved one, further pounding your emotions? Distress robs us of living life to the fullest. Distress denies us the opportunity to be whole in body, mind and spirit.
If we were honest, we would admit that some personal distresswaters can be avoided if we paid attention to our bodies, minds and souls in particular ways like caring for our bodies: driving carefully, eating sensibly, getting adequate amounts of rest, having regular dentist and doctor check-ups, following doctor’s advice, not worrying while waiting for results of medical tests; exercising our minds: reading books, listening to various kinds of music, playing an instrument, developing a hobby, learning a new language; nourishing our souls: savouring the beauty of the world around us; being humbled by the awareness of the gift of our life; being appreciative of, and thankful for, the blessings around us, sitting still and be-ing.
What about the corporate distress waters that are rising quickly these days – global stressors of politics, terrorism, lack of access to clean water, fresh air, food, housing, medical/dental care? What about the rising waters of dictators, autocrats, loss of democracy?
Are any of these corporate distress waters flooding your thoughts and bringing about sleepless nights?
Some would say that little can be done about corporate distress. But, perhaps, there are things — when elections happen, we can … exercise our right to vote at each election (municipal, provincial/state, national/federal) and cast our ballot for the candidates we think will make a positive difference in the environment, legal system, health care, educational system, security, environment etc. The United States has just had their election for the head of their country. Canada will have their election in October 2025. In general, we can … become involved in local communities and volunteer time to organizations which work so faithfully at inculcating morals and values; work with and care for our youth, the elderly, the unemployed, the single parent families, the abused, the victimized, the homeless, the hungry, the mentally ill, the addicted, etc.
We can pray – however we understand that word – pray that the evil (for there is evil in the world) doesn’t overwhelm us, infiltrate the hearts and minds of our youth, contaminate politicians, corporations and institutions any further … pray that goodness will reign; hope will be experienced; inner joy will permeate each woman, child, man, youth; wisdom will be respected; and peace, not conflict or war, will be the mandate of all governments and societies.
And we can share with another – be that a trusted friend, colleague, mentor, counsellor, loved one … and give the fear a voice so that it no longer is trapped within us.
Yes, let’s name the “rising waters of life” that frighten, numb, shock. “Naming” our feelings, our reactions … whether large or small, big or little distress, there IS something we can do to reduce the impact in our daily living of the rising-waters-of-nature/personal concerns/corporate concerns to hopefully will help us rise above the rising waters. May it be so.
This night, on the eve of the election in the United States, tensions are high. anxiety is higher fear is higher.
Mail-in ballots are being readied to be counted. People are making plans to get to the polls in the morning. Foreign countries may have infiltrated the voting process. Lawyers and judges are preparing to argue challenges against counting mail-in ballots And, as it all unfolds I pray. Many pray – many within the United States and many beyond.
As I was praying, I I noticed a shadow on my bedroom wall created by the little statue. Words and a familiar melody echoed in my head and I found myself praying … a song.
While the words are part of a Christian hymn they can have meaning for non-Christians when adapted. I hope they will.
Perhaps you will join me in singing/humming (if you know the melody) and if not, join me in saying/thinking these words (original words in paratheses) because … “We are pilgrims on a journey; We are family on the road; We are here to help each other Walk the miles and bear the load.
I will hold the night-light (Christ-light) for you In the nighttime of your fear; I will hold my hand out to you, Speak the peace you long to hear.
I will weep when you are weeping; When you laugh I’ll laugh with you; I will share your joys and sorrows Till we’ve seen this journey through.
When we sing to Nature’s glory (to God in Heaven) We shall find such harmony, Born of all we’ve known together Of the world’s (Christ’s) love and agony.
Neighbour, family (brother, sister) let me serve you; Let me be a friend (as Christ) to you; Pray that I might have the grace to Let you be my servant, too. <Richard Gillard, adapted by June Maffin>
This night may we hold the night-light for all in the United States and for ourselves because whether we acknowledge it or not, what happens in this election will affect the rest of the world.
And if necessary, as the votes are counted and the anticipated legal process unravels in the coming nights may we continue to pray – to sing – to remind ourselves that regardless of the outcome of the election we are all going to have to live together on this Planet Earth>
We all want to have the answer to the question “What is going to happen?” But perhaps the question is not “What” but “How.” And the answer to that must be “Together.”
Whatever happens, we must get through it together, because “We are pilgrims on a journey; We are family on the road; We are here to help each other Walk the miles and bear the load.
This night, let us hold the night-light for one another.
This time of the year in many parts of the world,
it is or soon will be Winter Weather
At the same time, Political Winter weather is happening.
The nights are dark and bring fear
and political haranguing permeates social media.
Hope is disguised, hidden, not-evident by many
as people wait for the next political explosion.
We must remember to breathe
… breathe for ourselves
… breathe for those who cannot breathe.
We must hold fast and remember
the quietness of peace for ourselves
remember that while the nights may be dark
in one place in the world,
in another place in the world
the nights are light.
We must hold to the hope
that when the night seems dark
– hopeless – in one place
… hope is – somewhere
… prayeris being offered – somewhere
… communion is being received – somewhere
May we hold the light
… for those who cannot breathe
May we say a prayer
… for those who cannot sleep
May we hold hope
… for those who cannot hope
May we remember that there are signs of light.
This night, in a speech by a woman who faces unbelievable odds
yet who fearlessly confronts them.
she spoke a powerful speech.
Seven days before an election
that could determine political light – democracy –
for the people of the United States
the woman spoke truth – and hope.
She named evil
… warned against it
In these politically-trying times
this woman stood tall
spoke with determination and courage
and brought hope
and light.
In spite of living in the reality
of the howling of the wind and the rain in the trees
of the howling of the lies and fear on the airwaves, papers, social media
let us refocus.
Refocus on the good
… not the evil
Refocus on the possibilities
…. not the fear
Refocus on the reality that “this too, shall pass.”
It shall.
Hope IS possible.
Light IS possible.
We ARE possible in this Winter Weather
this Political Winter.
Emails and social media posts from American friends who shared feelings of helplessness, isolation, and fear, lacking strength to face the next “drop of the shoe” haven’t stopped since this time four years ago.. So what has changed? What has changed is – it’s gotten worse. Much worse.
Dear American neighbours, my friends, what is happening in your country is beyond imagining … the hatred … the fear … when will it end? how will it end? will it end?
You may feel alone. You may feel helpless. You may feel frightened as you have never felt before. You may not think you have the strength or courage to face “the next.”
Please be assured that there are people around the world who are holding you all in the Light … praying for you … are “with you” in spirit … are hoping and praying and encouraging you to vote in your this election if have not already done so – and vote in numbers your country has never seen before.
May you vote with ‘hope’. May you vote ‘love’, not hate. May you vote so that this time next year, the answer to the question “What has changed?” will be “A LOT!
… the economy will be better – much better. … news media will revert to its original purpose – inform people with truth no supposition, rumour, pontification, conspiracy spreading … social media will bring people together …the fear and hatred will begin to dissipate as leaders at all levels of government of the United States will be devoted to country, not party.
May all Americans get out and vote Vote for hope!
That’s what millions around the world are doing for you … hoping and praying that you will vote … vote for democracy … vote for leaders who will put the country first, not themselves.
But …. to bring the change you have to do your part and vote!
I was in awe when this exquisite flower first opened its petals.
Awe filled my heart even more as raindrops fell leaving their mark on the exquisite petals … tenderly embracing ……… gently blessing …………. its fragile petals.
When raindrops of sorrow touch our bodies, minds, souls, may we allow the tears to well up and flow and healing can begin … tenderly embracing …….. gently blessing …………. our fragile souls.
On this 23rd anniversary of 9-11, the world remembers. We remember the fear, the terror, the bravery, the sacrifice, the horror of it all.
The world specifically remembers … the First Responders who died.
The world remembers … those who struggle with ill health since being near Ground Zero.
The world remembers … those killed in the twin towers & planes.
The world remembers … those who continue to grieve … those who deal with PTSD and health issues because of that day.
The United States went through a devastating time September 11th. The United States is going through a turbulent time now. Canadians stood with our American neighbours then. Canadians stand with our American neighbours now.
May each of us … remember the day… remember the lessons … remember.
Do you remember – when you surprised yourself by singing … creating … laughing out loud … dancing a few steps in an unexpected time/location?
– when the contrast of sky and trees … night and day … sunrise and sunset – brought a sense of wonder that filled your soul?
– when a deep part of you that you’d long forgotten was awakened by the colour of a flower … the sound of an instrument … the taste of a meal … the touch of love … a moment of silence in the midst of a chaotic day?
– when the laughter of a child … the smell of a newborn … the antics of a pet … the unexpected embrace of a loved one … the personal words that accompanied a “Happy Birthday” greeting … the fragility of life … the flutter of a hummingbird’s wings … reminded you that there was “something more” to this world?
– when you followed that “still, small voice within” making a decision?
– when the concept of sacredness brought a sense of peace to your soul … and you couldn’t explain it to anyone, or even yourself?
– when, in spite of personal difficulties, fears, doubts, you … chose to put one step in front of the other … chose to take the day, one moment at a time … chose to whisper ‘hope is possible’.
These are moments when we touch the holy – the sacred – that which moves us to a sense of awe, that “je ne sais quoi” because it is indefinable, inexplicable, and deeply moves us to a place/space of reverence that can but does not need to be connected to the common understanding of the divine.
Those are moments when the Holy as we understand it, touches us.
In these difficult days of political rhetoric … divided families … countries at/on the brink of war … flagrant lies from people in leadership positions … financial instability … diminishing health … global climate concerns … and more, may we be observant to the holy, remember the moments when we have touched the holy, and be receptive to the moments when the Holy touched us for, whether we use that word, we have encountered Something Beyond Ourselves and it changes us – whether we know it, whether we acknowledge it, whether we believe it or not.
Trigger Moments – they come; they go; they can ambush without consent.
Trigger Moments bring us back to a time and place with a loved one who has died or who is dying … who has dementia and whose mind is dying … who is missing and not yet found … a much-loved canine/feline friend who has died or for whom we have made the difficult decision for a veterinarian-assisted death.
Trigger Moments enter conversations and thoughts in other ways … catalyst for recovering addicts/alcoholics to slip … PTSD flashbacks … COVID19 when thoughts of “what was, is no longer” surround and affect on all levels: body, mind and spirit.
Trigger Moments can be sweet. Trigger Moments can cause deep pain. Trigger Moments can intensify the desire to have “just one more” conversation … one more laugh … one more time to travel … one more opportunity to be together in holy silence in the Studio or garden, creating … one more embrace … just one more “we” moment.
When those Trigger Moments show up, when the tears flow and we are helpless to stop them, it is natural to want to “get over it.” I know that I do.
Instead, I let the tears flow … do some gentle, deep breathing … and acknowledge that the tears and sadness are part of the grief experience and I am not “losing it”.
Trigger Moments. In those moments, I know I need to care for – and take care of – my husband’s wife … me.
And I do – finding comfort in sitting on our deck beside the chair my husband used … sipping cold lemonade, enjoying the peace, quiet and beauty of our back yard … feeling his presence in a gentle way … and knowing that eventually, the Trigger Moment which left me reeling with the pain of loss, will pass.
I know that Trigger Moments are a natural part of healing from loss. I don’t like them. I know that there will be other Trigger Moments.
All I can do when they come is … let the tears flow and deep breathing happen … remember that such moments are part of the grief experience … recognize and accept the reality that in time, healing will come … take comfort in the words of the prophet Isaiah “joy shall come, even in the wilderness”.
Grief is part of life.
Trigger Moments come. Trigger Moments go. May they not be resented. May they not be despised. May they be welcomed as part of the grieving process as part of the healing process as part of the circle of life.
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The tomato plant in this photo was last year’s attempt to grow tomatoes. This year, I didn’t even do this well! I got four mini tomatoes and no, they weren’t supposed to be mini tomatoes. My guess is that I didn’t water the plant enough. I’ll try again next year. And remember to water the plant each morning. 🙂
