Peace within
11-10-2008Viewpoint: Editor’s Corner
By JANE DENNIS
The monumental election of 2008 is now history. Whether we were in the majority or the minority on particular races or ballot issues, what we now have in common is the future.
With this thought in mind, I am yielding my column space to a college friend who articulated the day-after election feelings of so many so well:
Today is a glorious day for many, but a sad day for many others. When we find ourselves at such divides, I think it’s more important than ever to focus on the things that we share, the things we have in common, the things we all love, trust and believe in.
[Among our group of college friends] we know that we are varied in our political affiliations, in our faith affiliations, in our approach to conflict, to praise, to rhetoric, to science & medicine, to daily life — and yet we’re joined through our dedication to a common cause and we’ve found ways to bridge those divides and foster mutual love, concern, and respect. May we employ this knowledge and skill that we’ve gained into other areas of our lives and may we share it with others so they too will benefit from the strength that comes from unity.
Saint Theresa is known as the Saint of the Little Ways, meaning she believed in doing the little things in life well and with great love. Remember, prayer is one of the best free gifts we receive.
St. Theresa’s Prayer
May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.
[Jane Dennis has served as editor of the Arkansas United Methodist since 1988. She can be reached at jdennis@arumc.org]
