The Grace of Community

I know, I know … it’s considered old news. But old news, remembered at the right time, still has the power to focus the way forward. This is that kind of news.

Thank you! I saw you out there; I felt and used your energy and your determined commitment to propel my own forward.

Did you notice it too? There were no moments of silence; instead, important words and elated, committed engagement rang out in equal measure that Saturday morning. We were in community . . . grateful for the opportunity to say aloud, donate to, cheer and march for those ideals and values we, together, hold dear.

Remembering how I was impacted by that mass-meeting time together in mid-October is mirrored in this Tibetan saying:

Wherever you have friends, that’s your country, and

wherever you receive love, that’s your home.

Surrounded in community during that rallying event, my heart gratefully opened to again feeling at home within my country

A speaker was at the podium but I was blocked from seeing her because an American flag, held by someone in the crowd a few rows up, was gently swaying at just the wrong angle. That paradox, where poor timing is ordinarily frustrating yet, at the same moment, perfectly timed, made me smile. After all, I was there because of the promises of that waving flag.

Positive energy hummed in the air – we looked to our right, and our left, in front and behind to view all who were around us. As I again faced forward, just then, the flag swayed slightly letting me see the speakers who were reminding we thousands of friends that together we would make a positive difference . . . we are our country . . . we are the home we love.

In every community, there is work to be done.

In every nation, there are wounds to heal.

In every heart, there is the power to do it. 

  Marianne Williamson

We’re in the midst of important heart work to repair home and country. Stay strong and positive, assured that our community will prevail, fueled by purpose, generosity, hope and the gracious promises of a waving American flag.

Jane