Teach Us to Give Less

I'm listening to Maria Callas; while the rain continues to darken the end of a Sunday evening. It's a beautiful day because love filled the air [and my heart] from the moment I awoke this morning until now [and beyond]. Maria is my cantor, and she could probably sing anything and I would find it soothing to this beast.

What isn't soothing? Each week there seems to be a new voice of conflict, raising up a loud clamor for a side against another side. Healthcare, economy, domestic violence; name it from the headlines of a favorite newspaper [online or in print].

Heading into Holy Week, wonder if we should learn to give less time and energy to conflict. Instead, how about a week of deferring whatever conflict wants our attention - even if the provocation is irresistible - until a later time, if ever. Let the conflict pass, see if it was meant to be a part of who we are and stand for. Conflict and emotion are great friends; perhaps not giving into both at the same time means conflict doesn't get a chance to become part of who we are.

I'll try to muse more on this during Holy Week.

con paz,
frank