As I write this, the pandemic is surging across the United States while it is being brought under control in many other parts of the world. The public health crisis has triggered a historic financial shock. At the same time, we are witnessing a growing social movement in support of Black Lives Matter and increasing grassroots support of action on climate change.
Far from sitting idly by, these times call us to re-commit ourselves to responsible action for the dear neighbor. That action may be as simple as ardent prayer or reaching out to support those with whom we share this pandemic isolation.
We take a cue from the poet of solitude, Emily Dickenson, in I cannot love with You:
So We must meet apart –You there – I – here
Surely Dickenson did not get on Zoom calls but found in solitude a way of growing in spiritual depth and of being more deeply present to those with whom she did connect.
We also reach out beyond prayer and solidarity, so that like Dickenson, we can "dwell in Possibility." I nurture hope and I "dwell in Possibility" by responding to today’s challenges.
Stirred by the powerful words of our 2019 CSJ Congregational Chapter, I continue to grow in personal commitment and to work with others to respond to today’s challenges:
Striving to be beacons of hope, we commit to:
• Respond to the crisis of Earth and global warming,
• Deepen awareness of our complicity and work toward dismantling interlocking systems of oppression,
• Articulate and authentically live our vows in ways that witness and speak to today’s realities,
• Walk with women as we claim our voice and work toward an inclusive church and society,
• Use our collective voice to accompany others in speaking their truth.
I can "dwell in Possibility" by committing to small and large actions for justice myself and in community, and by affirming, supporting, and promoting others in their actions for justice.
Will you join me?
Peace,
Amy
