January 28, 1999

Reflections

Peace on Earth

children of diverse cultures holding/raising hands together

So much is going on in our world. Current events reveal our President in impeachment proceedings, overseas we have wars in the Balkans, the Middle-East, famine, starvation and slaughter of innocent lives in Africa, floods, earthquakes, airplane crashes, tornadoes, rapes, murders, everywhere there is turmoil.

What can I do about it?

(sigh)

I take a moment now and then to lift my spirit and pray for peace and end to suffering. I breathe deep and exhale good thoughts and prayers to help the healing, increase the understanding, facilitate the forgiveness in this imperfect world. There is not one living plant or creature without flaws and yet there is beauty everywhere.

There is sooooo much going on, it's way too much for me. I am aware of the evil in this world, and of the sadness and misery I can acknowledge. But I also know that there is a balance of good in this world, too. Flowers are growing out of the recycled soil, sunshine is dancing on the water, healthy babies are born, smiles reflecting love between family members and dear friends. Children are learning to walk and talk and play, songs are sung, dances danced, students are graduating from high school and college and getting jobs, friends are supporting one another. Good things are happening too.

So much is going on. And we can only pick and choose what we think, how we talk, where we go, who we see, what we say, what we do.

I spend a good portion of my time on my computer. I transcribe Braille, write letters, look up information and refer people to the resources I find. I update calendars with events, try to keep current with local community news...and through it all, I constantly listen to music...good music. I select songs with happy melodies, uplifting lyrics, upbeat rhythm and beautiful instrumentals. I also select books with positive messages, and surround myself with happy pictures and stuffed animals.

I am aware of the evil and sadness in the world, and don't intend to turn an apathetic back to victims of crime, war and disaster. But I can't dwell on it either. It's my choice.... there's only so much to thnk about, so much to do. By focusing on the positive, I've eliminated half of the choices that bombard me daily.

Let there be Peace on Earth, and Let it Begin With Me.

Copyright, 1999 by Beth D. Marsau

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