Happy Halloween to those who celebrate! As with almost anything these days, we are divided and have varying perspectives on Halloween. Some think it is evil and sinful to participate in the holiday. Some really get into it and spend a small fortune on costumes, decorations, candy and haunted houses. And some see it as a fun day to interact with our neighbors, show love to children, and use our imaginations as we try on a different identity. And who doesn’t love some candy?!
There is also an election coming up which seems to be an even greater source of division. So, how do we love and respect each other when we have vastly different beliefs and opinions on so many topics? Sometimes it seems almost impossible to navigate even relationships with close friends and family. It’s crucially important to remember that each person is worthy of love and respect no matter what, even when it is really hard.
My husband recently released his song "With All Due Respect" which wrestles with discovering who you are and what you believe, and discusses how to set boundaries with those who disagree with you and expect you to change yourself or your beliefs. Tracy wrote, "I have finally learned how to say, 'you do you and I'll do me' and 'you believe what you believe.' I am finally in the driver's seat of my own life, and it feels amazing!" You can listen to it here.
Some of my favorite lines are that “I can live life transcendent…I can love with compassion, I have set my heart free.” That’s what Awakened2Love is all about!
This week I am also including a video of my husband sharing some of his journey and several songs at our church recently. We want you to know that you are loved, you are enough, and you're going to be okay. (Tracy starts at about 2:30 on the video.) Video: Tracy Fletcher at The Open Table