We have endured another long and contentious election season and are now in the midst of adjusting to the results. More than ever before, it has been a season of divisiveness. More than ever before, it can negatively affect, and even end relationships, communities, interactions, and one’s sense of well-being. Some of this is linked to the election results, and some of it goes even deeper than that.
Today, I want to start by simply naming some things.
For many, there is authentic anger, confusion, fear, and lament. For others, there may be confusion as to why that is. The gaps are there. I have no great answers or formulas to bring the collective “us” to a quick and painless resolution.
What I will offer, is the invitation for each of us to take the time to do something that seems very basic, but it’s foundational and can be taken for granted..
Breathe. Breathe deep.
As you take just a few minutes to deeply inhale through your nose, and slowly exhale through your mouth, eventually ask yourself honestly:
“How is my soul?” Pause. Listen.
Don’t minimize. Try to not let another’s voice change or quiet what your soul is saying to you. Listen without response.
Stay in that space for as long as you need to.
Now, if you can, allow the Holy to sit with you and your soul. To listen. To hold you. The Holy might be with you through the Spirit – or a safe person – or a beloved critter – or in the breeze as it moves the soon-to-be-barren trees. Can you recognize it? You are not alone.
Do this daily. However often you need. And then, maybe days or weeks into practicing listening and being present to your heart and soul – see if there’s an invitation.
And when you are ready, find a space, place, or person where you can express, be heard, and be held.
Don’t rush yourself.
We at Journey Center of Michigan hope to be a safe place for you to land, or to be with you in the muck. We especially hope to be that for those who can’t find those relationships and safe places elsewhere. A possible entry point with JCMI is by joining us for our twice a week morning meditation times: Wednesday’s Space to Breathe and Friday’s (re)Discover Love.
And remember, Breathe. Breathe Deep.
