This week, I have wrestled with what to write about. I went for a few good walks seeking inspiration, but no major life lessons popped out. I had jotted down previous insights a few weeks ago, but I don’t feel enough passion to write a meditation on those, in light of recent events.

 

The truth is, I am heavy with frustration and sadness about the state of affairs in our great country. I’ve had some related thoughts I’ve considered sharing, but I’m not sure how true they are outside of my own perspective. 

 

I do know that what happened to George Floyd is an incomprehensible tragedy. I do know every police officer is not bad. I do know that everyone in our country is not racist. 

 

Chaos and fear are contagious. We can succumb to it … or not.

 

We are likely to be affected by what’s happening around us but we can also simultaneously hold what is going well, amidst the troubles of today.

 

We must never allow ourselves to feel helpless, or believe we can’t make a difference. That’s just not true.

 

Peace Pilgrim said, “One little person, giving all of her time to peace, makes news. Many people, giving some of their time, can make history."   

 

Effecting change can also start simply by improving how we treat one another during everyday encounters.

 

If each of us sets the intention to spread peace today in some small way, imagine the ripple affect we could have collectively? We can all use a little extra tenderness and grace as we navigate these highly unusual times.

 

How are you feeling right now? When I operate from a place of anger or any other intense emotion, I am seldom going to use my best judgment or be my highest self.

 

If you are feeling anything but calm, perhaps a three-minute mindfulness practice could restore you to a more grounded place? 

 

Last week, I spoke with ministry powerhouse Gina Parris as a guest on her “Bounce Back God’s Way”  challenge. At the end, I offered a very short mindfulness exercise. 

 

I’m the second guest so my segment starts around the 29 minute mark and the mindfulness exercise starts at the 50 minute mark, with a brief explanation about mindfulness just before that.

 

Three minutes can completely change your immediate disposition and restore you to a moment of perfection. Try it now or save the email and try it later.

 

Let’s attempt to carry ourselves from a place of peace and kindness today and in the days to come, especially in the face of such national adversity. We can all be part of the solution.