A Musing Amma
Sometimes it just all piles up–the deadlines, the endings, the “one-thing-necessary,” the unexpected phone call, the drop-in visitor, the expiring appliance! And how does one keep gathering one’s self under the eye of the Holy when everything seems intent on resisting any attempt at collecting, amassing or grouping? This week I am trying to practice the basic minimum requirements for keeping my heart and soul connected to the Mystery while the pieces of my life careen around me.
- do one thing at a time: “for every thing there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” (Eccl 3:1). All I need to do is to pay attention to what time it is to do which thing.
- be thankful for everything that comes my way, even the things that seem like detours and interruptions; “In everything give thanks,”says Philippians. Really? Yet, I know it directs my mind and heart to the things most necessary.
- ask for Holy Help when strength is flagging and wisdom feels elusive; one of Ann Lamott’s essential prayers, “Help me! Help me! Help me!” is very useful here.
- remember I am not alone; I am accompanied, gentled, energized, directed by the Spirit that lives in me. Good company for the road no matter how circuitous!
- love the people I am with, more than the list of things I am trying to accomplish; Love is the first principle undergirding and overarching all the rest.
- laughter and tears are great accessories to busyness; welcome each of them and wear them when appropriate.
- the process is more important than the product; will the people with whom and for whom I labor be blessed and empowered as I work with them?
- Lady Julian knew the ultimate truth: All will be well, all will be well, and all manner of things will be well.
May the God who can safely pilot me through waters and fires also direct me through the Crunch! I am counting on it!
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