Human Heart--Democracy

"... Once again, false claims, half-truths, hateful rhetoric, fear-mongering and demonization of the opposition dominate our civic space, driving out the genuine issue-oriented debate a democracy needs to survive and thrive. We need citizens with chutzpah and humility to occupy our civic space and call American democracy back to health. There is no reason, at least no good reason, why our number cannot be legion." Parker Palmer

 

Key To Moving Forward #2

Thanks to Leo Babauta for these thoughts today.  

#2-- "I stopped being a quiet peacekeeper and started being a loud peacemaker."

Glennon Doyle, Untamed 

This phrase ignited me as I listened to Doyle's "Untamed".  Becoming a peacemaker is different than keeping the peace or acquiescing to something I know in my heart is wrong.  These are not normal times.  That doesn't mean Leo's words aren't helpful.  I believe they are a key to moving forward toward TRUE justice FOR ALL

 

kastilwell 

Built To Work Together

 With our country as divided as its become, this is vital. The forces

working against this are fierce. May we find a way

to heal the wounds and move forward 

in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.  

 kastilwell

Feeling Has Departed

 

I scheduled this quote a while back.  Reading it this morning made me cringe at it's darkness, especially on a day when the news is looking more hopeful than it has in awhile.  I started to apologize but will not as it was honest at the time I originally posted it.  I'm slowly learning feelings cycle like the tides.  Accepting and allowing them to do so, makes for a much more harmonious existence.  kastilwell

There is Your Fear

This brings home to me how prevalent and pervasive fear is and has been in my life.  It is a reminder of how it takes over from every direction and a gentle invitation to loosen its grip.  Hope and courage can take its place.  kas

Merged with the Infinite

 

For Those Who Suffer

 

To Those Who Suffer

May you feel encircled 

with tenderness in your distress.

May you be gathered close enough 

to detect soft breath on your cheek.

May you rest against a kind chest 

where you can sense 

the steady rhythm 

of a warm heart 

sustaining you in your suffering.

May you recognize you are not alone.

May what is beyond naming, 

beyond knowing, 

beyond measuring, 

comfort you.

A legion of invisible souls 

extend their hands 

sending comfort 

like sound waves.

May your physical body know 

beyond all understanding 

you are accompanied.  

May your human body 

register this immeasurable 

touch of compassion. 

@kastilwell

11/1/2020