11-18-18
With everything going on in our own personal lives, and within the larger world, we can quickly forget how beautiful the world is. Basking in the little things that make us appreciate and enjoy our best lives leads to a stronger disposition and quicker response towards compassion.
In the past I have felt unable to find joy in my own life while I know there’s many in this world who are so far from that reality. I have felt guilt that I am here while someone else is in a harmful place.
It has taken a significant amount of work and understanding to get to point in which I don’t feel obligated to hold on to that guilt and that shame. When I was younger the phrase, “by the grace of God, there go I,” meaning to be thankful, as well as to hold compassion because the Lord has divined that you are here, but could as easily be there. So be grateful.
I suppose when I began to delve deeper into what theology means to myself these old proverbs made it difficult to find rational explanations for the strife so prevalent in the world. Why would something so omnipotent allow for such atrocities?
It wasn’t until I began to really appreciate the little things that bring me joy, that I began to find compassion in my own situations. I have no control over anyone else’s life, as such I should also hold no guilt for their situation or condition; instead through taking a compassionate approach we can offer strength. By not being encumbered by guilt or needless shame, we can use that energy to work towards empowering ourselves and by proxy others.
Lyrics:
I like swimming in the sea
I like to go out beyond the white breakers
Where a man can still be free,
Or a woman if you are one
I like swimming in the sea
I like drinking Irish Tea
With a little bit of lap sang souchong
I like making my own Tea
I like driving in my car
Roll the top down,
Sometimes I travel quite far
Drive to the ocean
Stare up at the stars
Death in large numbers, no respect for woman, or our little ones
I tried talking to Jesus, but he just put me on hold
Said he’d been swamped by calls this week
And He could not shake his cold
Perhaps this is as good as it gets
When you’ve given up the drink and those nasty cigarettes
Now I leave the party early at least with no regrets
I watch the sun as it comes up I watch it as it sets
Yeah this is as good as it gets
I like sleeping with Marie
She is one sexy girl full of mystery
She says she doesn’t love me, but she likes my company
For now that’s good enough for me