Trying Times

I spent a lovely weekend alone, recharging and rediscovering the good, quiet places inside myself.

I held a lorikeet at the zoo, and he licked my finger. I didn't know birds could lick.

I also listened to a few favorite podcasts, including On Being with Krista Tippett, and I want to share something with you that she shared with me.

I have been through times of great pain and difficulty. I have quite a few friends who are in pain and difficulty right now. And, as life continues, we will all take turns in their places. Here's a bit of something beautiful for those dark moments. I'm wishing peace, love, and healing to all of you.

Quiet friend who has come so far,
feel how your breathing makes more space around you.
Let this darkness be a bell tower
and you the bell. As you ring,

what batters you becomes your strength.
Move back and forth into the change.
What is it like, such intensity of pain?
If the drink is bitter, turn yourself to wine.

In this uncontainable night,
be the mystery at the crossroads of your senses,
the meaning discovered there.

And if the world has ceased to hear you,
say to the silent earth: I flow.
To the rushing water, speak: I am.

Rainer Maria Rilke, Sonnets to Orpheus II, 29