Pastor's Paragraph - March 26, 2020
How to Find Meaning in a Time of Pandemic
I am often asked how we find meaning in such a chaotic and confusing world. One thought that often helps me is to recognize the ways in which I think in comparisons. Things seem good or bad, pretty or ugly, successful or non-successful. Author and priest Richard Rohr calls this dual thinking. Not only do we judge people and things with dual thinking but we also judge ourselves. We think we are coping or falling apart, managing well or feeling stressed. This thinking leads to an all-or-nothing mindset and builds anxiety. The truth is that we can feel both feelings at once - a little bit country and a little bit rock and roll. We can feel vulnerable and strong. We can embrace the uncertainty and remind ourselves of our strengths. We can feel broken and be strong. We can know we are guilty and feel grace. My son says,’ it is what it is.’ I like that phrase. Our hope is that God will mysteriously provide the meaning. And hope is a good thing even with the mix of hope and doubt.
I sometimes use this exercise to help with conflicting thoughts and feelings: Get comfortable and holding your hands in front of you, palms up, now look at your right hand. Imagine that hand representing the stresses and anxieties of your life. Really let that image soak into your hand. Then look at your left hand and let the goodness of your life be represented there. Hold your palms directly facing each other and let go - letting the two hands slowly and naturally draw closer together - they will! This is a visualization for the integration of the two contrasting thoughts or feelings coming into a more comfortable place.
I pray for the blessings of quiet, transformation, and love for your Lenten journey.
39 Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea,
“Peace, be still!”And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.
Mark 4:39 New King James Version (NKJV)
