We were on the forest trail yesterday when it arose, unbidden – a cold jagged stone of a thing.
We had been sharing deep concern about the prevalence of human suffering all over this planet and those actions we must each take to offer comfort and beauty, assistance, kindness. The conversation then transitioned into how much the natural world is also suffering: impending hurricanes, sweeping floods, melting glaciers, drought, crushing earthquakes … the Amazon aflame. We felt the weight of the interconnections among all of this suffering – people and planet. In our own little thriving forest, enjoying the luxury of good health and a break from work on a warm day, came this icy talon.
Suddenly it was there - rearing up and ugly as hell: despair.
We were taken aback by its sudden emergence even though we recognized its timely and appropriate presence with us. We allowed it to walk along with us for a while, to speak its concerns.
Then, just as abruptly, there was hope whispering a passionate song from behind the redcedar:
Become quiet. Acknowledge the presence of strife. Listen deep within, and seek out Spirit, for guidance. And then follow that direction courageously, gently, lovingly, unwaveringly.
We both felt this melody softening our hearts, strengthening our resolve, eliminating barriers, growing our commitment.
* * *
I heard this message again many hours later when strong breezes gathered in a lovely, unexpected drizzle. I listened attentively to the quiet refrains of hope that the weather offered. With wide open lungs I bathed in the potent refreshment of rainscent. And in these I re-membered the source of hope and the empowered embodiment of compassionate service to others.
All blog images created & photographed by Jennifer J. Wilhoit unless otherwise noted. Please circulate images with photo credit: "©2019 JenniferJWilhoit/TEALarbor stories. AllRightsReserved."
