Repairing Bridges
What a chaotic scary time we are living in! It is as if the inmates are running the asylum and driving the crazy train straight toward the edge of a cliff. Some of us are trying to find a way to escape because it’s all too much. Others are desperately trying to derail the train or stop it in its tracks and help others around us who have been injured. The last 45 days have been overwhelming and horrifying, as we watch our democracy slip away.
This week I participated in a great rally of beautiful people at Cincinnati City Hall. There were hundreds of passionate patriots, young and old alike speaking out in defense of our democracy. I was inspired and encouraged.
Then I saw people on social media celebrating and praising the actions of our current administration, and saying their prayers have been answered. How can we be so different in our interpretation of current events? We have differing ideas of what is fact or fiction. We have very different versions of what love means. It has become so difficult to have conversations with each other that are kind and respectful. It is my intent to be loving in my approach, but I’m sure I fail to communicate love at times when expressing my thoughts and beliefs. I truly care about everyone and just want us to work together for the common good of all people. That’s hard to do while we are so divided.
One of the major bridges across the Ohio River in Cincinnati was damaged by a fire a few months ago. A playground underneath the bridge where my kids used to play was completely destroyed. The bridge was closed for repairs for months which caused traffic problems and many people had to find new ways to get where they needed to go. It will take even longer to repair damage to our connections with our neighbors, coworkers, family members, and international allies, but it is a worthwhile project to invest in. Let’s join hands and voices.
Broken Bridges
Between us lie chasms deep and wide
Built by fear, maintained by pride
Broken bridges of understanding
Leave us separate, apart standing.
But in the rubble of what’s been torn,
New connections can be born.
With every hand reached out in peace,
We make the gaps between us cease.
Stone by stone and beam by beam,
We build the bridges of our dreams.
A world connected, whole and true
Where justice flows from me to you. (Author Unknown, from Black Liturgies)
Please watch this video and enjoy the beautiful music and dance and the timely lyrics:
What are you gonna do about it when the world comes undone?
My voice feels tiny and I’m sure so does yours
But put us all together, make a mighty roar