Every single day, lives are changed forever by tragedy of every kind. In an instant life is turned sideways and nothing will ever be the same.

Natural disasters – wind, fire, rain, earthquakes.
Collapses – buildings, bridges, scaffolding, ladders, businesses.
Human tragedies – violence, war, famine, abuse.
Disease and diagnoses – too many to name.
Emergencies – stroke, heart attack, aneurism.
Accidents – car crash, drug overdose, fall.
Loss – anything and everything that brings on grief and pain.

This past week has been no different than many other weeks of our life. And next week will bring more of the same. What can we do? So much heartache and suffering. I feel sad. It hurts to suffer and to watch suffering. I know because I have been in both places…I bet you have too.

When we aren’t the ones in the crosshairs, we have a crucial role to play. It is this – to not let ourselves be dragged into suffering with others, but instead to be the joy and the light that offers hope. That is what will lift us up, all of us.

We can feel empathy, we can imagine the pain and sorrow. And then our work is to breathe deeply and imagine love and wholeness rising in those who are suffering at this very moment now. To envision comfort and ease and every good thing. To pray, meditate and love.

Listen…the greatest power in the world is love. Let’s use it! Use it now. Are you doubtful? How could it possibly work? Just this question…have you ever really tried it?

With great trust in God that is Love Itself.
Paula