GraceNotes: Holding the Space for … Reflection

#55 — November 1, 2016

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.

— John 14:27

Greetings, Inspired Seekers!

Shortly after you receive this newsletter it will be time to vote in an election that has been described as unusual, unprecedented and historic. It has also been described in many other ways, not printable in a missive that strives for a certain level of decorum. But, relax, this is not a political proclamation; it is a thoughtful reflection on healing, unity and wholeness.

Regardless of the outcome of the upcoming election, healing throughout the country will be required, and wholeness will need to be restored. And while we all hope that our candidate will win and bring about productive and positive change, no change will be accomplished if we cannot find common and respectful ground upon which to stand. Sacred ground, where, together, we stand centered on the highest good for all.

There have been many times throughout history, from ancient days that we recall from history books - which offer their own perspectives - to those years and times that we have personally lived through. And every generation faces their days with a choice: Do I work for wholeness with compassion, or do I continue to serve the self, regardless of the pain it causes to others? Which choice will you make?

While every faith tradition has had its share of agony and turmoil, the spiritual leaders of those traditions call for consensus, conversations and compassion as a way to wholeness and peace. Can we do no less?

In the Book of Hebrews it is written: Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy…

The Buddha wrote: You will not be punished for your anger, you will be punished by your anger.

And perhaps one of the most comprehensive writings on peace comes from Taoism:

If there is to be peace in the world,
there must be peace in the nations.
If there is to be peace in the nations,
there must be peace in the cities.
If there is to be peace in the cities,
there must be peace between neighbors.
If there is to be peace between neighbors,
there must be peace in the home.
If there is to be peace in the home,
there must be peace in the heart.

And so, as we go to the polls in a few short days, may our hearts be filled with peace; may our intentions be for the highest good of all. And may the sacred and common ground beneath our feet hold us all, uplifted by the love of the Spirit! For then, we will be able to walk together towards wholeness and healing.

Grace-Fully Yours,
Reverend Deborah

Monthly Affirmation: I walk in peace with whoever is beside me.


The Reverend Dr. Deborah Darlington ministers to people of all traditions and those seeking a deeper sense of spirituality. She can be reached at 215 260 1611 or at GraceMatters@TheSpaceForGrace.com for weddings, memorials and other sacred celebrations that honor the Spirit and the individual.

www.TheSpaceForGrace.com