Musing Meditation: Things are not always as big/bad as they appear! Be mindful on Election Day.
Nov 3, 2020
When I was five years old, I didn’t particularly care for Kindergarten. It wasn’t that I hated school. Other than nap time, I enjoyed it all. But what I did hate was leaving home, I missed my mama. The previous years were largely just she and me. My dad worked 12-hour shifts as security and slept when he was off. She and I had a close bond working and hanging out on my grandfather’s farm.
So, when it came time to go to school, that was my least favorite thing.
One day I had the brilliant idea (yes, at 5 yrs old) that I would skip school.
Where the bus stopped, there were two giant columns so I decided I would hide behind them so that the bus driver wouldn’t be able to see me. The driver sat there for what seemed like forever, but I didn’t budge. As the bus edged forward slowly, I would slink around the back side of the column, always making sure I was out of her eyesight.
Once the bus driver gave up, I ran home to tell my mama what I’d done. I was so proud of my accomplishment. I’m pretty sure that was one of those times she laughed, cried, and fussed at me all in one conversation. But my goal was accomplished. I got to spend a day with my mom.
Recently I had the opportunity to drive by that home with those columns. Truthfully, I was shocked when I looked at them. They are TINY! There is NO WAY that bus driver didn’t see me hiding behind the column, no matter how hard I tried to be invisible. Now I know why she sat there so long . . . she was just waiting on me to give up and get in.
I truly was shocked when I saw those columns as an adult. What was LOOMING in my childhood were absolutely small now.
Something for us to remember as a people of faith is often times in life things appear looming, huge, unable to be overcome when truly our minds and imaginations create that negativity into being.
Things are rarely as large and foreboding as they seem.
Today on this election day may we be mindful that each of us carry thoughts, opinions, hopes, and dreams into this election. For some, those dreams will be fulfilled with results. For others, situations will feel looming and foreboding.
What if we pray for wisdom for all who lead our government, in all parts – local, state, national?
What if we pray they approach all things with open minds and hearts, willing to listen to the brilliant people that help lead? No one leads anything alone.
And what if we agree to be a people of unity, compassion, and peace in all things?
If we all work together, large roadblocks, hurdles, and even columns will end up being manageable, smaller things.
Be a good citizen. All governments are under God. Insofar as there is peace and order, it’s God’s order. So live responsibly as a citizen. If you’re irresponsible to the state, then you’re irresponsible with God, and God will hold you responsible. Duly constituted authorities are only a threat if you’re trying to get by with something. Decent citizens should have nothing to fear.
