It seems like it has been nothing but hard times across the entire world since the calendar turned to 2020… Like so many millions of people, I read the news every morning (trusted news, not social media!), thinking that I should stay well informed, but I find myself getting more and more depressed instead.
In the face of the pandemic and in the face of more and more dictators popping up around the world, and in the face of horrifying war on innocent people… and the fear of nuclear weapons being used… we feel so helpless.
I’m working on learning what I can do. In my household we give regularly to Doctors Without Borders, an organization of people who have so much to give, and they give it so bravely where it’s needed. And we pray for peace in the world, relief of suffering, guidance for those in charge. When I’m anxious, my thoughts are too scattered and I don’t have much focus––prayer doesn’t come very easily. Prayer while walking sometimes works.
Small things like helping with a local food bank that gets fresh produce and milk and cheese to those in need in our area, and just taking care of my local flock of birds and making sure they have good seed and fresh water while it’s still a frozen wasteland out there… these things help too. I know I should be doing more, and I will try to do more.
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I can, And the wisdom to know the difference.” (the AA Serenity Prayer)
Raven, Tell A Story 