Social distancing

Encouragement from Henri Nouwen

This came my way from Henry Freeman, board member at henrinouwen.org and I hereby give him full credit for all text below

 

"What does it mean to truly and authentically be with another person?" asked Henri Nouwen.

…Only a single question that speaks to the heart of something very powerful in the human spirit-the need for deep connection with others who care about us.

As we struggle to keep a safe physical distance from both strangers and loved ones, Henri's question reminds us that being "physically present"-as is often the case in many social settings-can never replace the emotional and spiritual presence that is at the heart of "being with" another person.  Indeed, what we all need-and what each of us can provide to another human being-is our desire to be present and our recognition of the privilege it is to share the burdens we all carry during this challenging time.

Three months behind and ahead

Just past equinox and three months since the solstice. That December night we experienced an evening of live music with Peter Mayer in Slater. Such a wonderful start to winter. Not my favorite season but Peter warmed my heart with his poetry and voice on the longest night of the year. 

Now he has pledged to release a new song on youtube everyday till "the distancing is over."

I’m pondering the energetic events and surprises of the past three months. Working in retail fueled December, campaigning for Mayor Pete consumed January, kaboom the caucuses deflated February but energy rebalanced with community valentine makers in our dining room, and the dogs - always the dogs. All beneath the brewing cloud of covid-19.

December seems like much longer ago than three months. I contemplate three months ahead and cannot imagine what will happen to all of us. It’s an anxious fearful time that I cannot fully understand. I can only live each day with mindfulness, humility, and compassion. I aspire to let the covid-19 experience make me the best possible person that I can be. Meanwhile, we shall rely upon Maxwell as stabilizer supreme.

Life's Persistance

  Another utterly remarkable weekend here with warm temperatures in the sixties and friendly winds. Once again, perfect dog walking weather and we did plenty of that.  We also paused to rescue a deer who I saw slam into a chain link fence. THAT was a healing experience. We actually thought she had a spinal cord injury and would have to be euthanized. With heavy hearts we trudged home to come back with a rifle. When we got back, she was gone. We searched thoroughly, not wishing to leave her suffering if she had simply dragged herself into hiding. But it was a large fenced area, a finite realm to search, and she was gone. Apparently she needed some recovery time alone and a whiff of spring ahead to choose life.  I like to think of her rally. Leaping over the fence that downed her. Choosing life.

We also marked this day one year without our beloved Tobey. I visit with him each night under the stars. I ask him- sometimes beg him- for help with the new dogs. His remarkable presence continues to inspire me. If Jasper and Bella are not already feeling his welcome, they will be with this anniversary. Thank you, a million thank yous, Tobey.