Oh, this world…

Oh, this world.

Oh, this world!

Oh, this world….

I gave these words all these inflections as I journeyed through July.

Sometimes these words followed the heart-broken sigh after another news cycle testified to the conflict and division, hate and violence of our world. Yet in the same day, the same words bounced with enthusiasm as I noticed someone doing something kind to someone on the street or when hummingbirds tried to participate in my front yard watering.  And sometimes, when I said these words, I didn’t know what to make of them or of the aforementioned world. The kaleidoscope of hope and despair, promise and futility, sparring and charming was a blur.

This I do know. I want to live in the immensity of this world and to touch its full promise. To do this, I have to be awake and aware enough to be able to notice a wide range of its offerings. Because it was so hot in early July, I got in the habit of getting up EARLIER than I do even when working. The cool of the day was ideal for outdoors things. The siesta in the afternoon was so sweet. This tuned me into the natural, rich rhythms of the days. Since returning to work, I have kept the early morning focus—at least for now—and that has allowed me more of those moments of joy.

I have enjoyed seeing those who I have encountered in my first two weeks back. I look forward to seeing more of you tomorrow at our meetings, Pride in the Plaza, and our GAME NIGHT! And on Sunday as well.

Whatever this world is, when we feel like we are in it with someone else, the joys are brighter and the sorrows more bearable.