We are living in uncertain times. Most of us alive today have never witnessed something 
so life-altering as this virus that now consumes our daily lives. We have never lived through a crisis so large and widespread. Our reactions vary, but many of us are afraid. Rightly so. In the midst of this, I want to take some time to remember the good and beauty and kindness we are still surrounded by. We cannot let fear overcome us. I’ve decided to dedicate the next 30 days to celebrating goodness. We all could use an infusion of hope.
For those of you that have lost a loved one, your livelihood, or something else irreplaceable, these 30 days may not be for you. The last thing you need is someone telling you to “look on the bright side”. You need to grieve. You have every right to your anger and despair. My heart breaks for you. I grieve with you and hold you in my heart. I wish there were words enough to comfort you. Life will never be the same, and I pray you have someone to provide you with support and comfort as you adjust to life as it is now. If you need someone to talk to, I’m here. Email me at racheltyanne@gmail.com and lets get in touch. You are loved and you matter.
For those of you who are simply afraid and overwhelmed, these 30 days of looking for goodness are for you. I encourage you to do the same, find ways to be a light. Spread love and hope and kindness.
This is a poem from The Gift. It’s called “We Have Not Come To Take Prisoners” and is by one of my favorite poets, Hafiz.
We Have Not Come To Take Prisoners
We have not come here to take prisoners,
but to surrender ever more deeply
to freedom and joy.
We have not come into this exquisite world
to hold ourselves hostage to love.
Run my dear,
from anything
that may not strengthen
your precious budding wings.
Run like hell my dear,
from anyone likely
to put a sharp knife
into the sacred, tender vision
of your beautiful heart.
We have a duty to befriend
those aspects of obedience
that stand outside our house
and shout to our reason
“O please, O please,
come out and play.”
For we have not come here to take prisoners
or to confine our wondrous spirits,
but to experience ever and ever more deeply
our divine courage, freedom, and
Light!
