This week: Charting New Territory Edited by: Sophy  
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Hi, I'm Sophy ~ your editor for this edition of the Spiritual Newsletter.
The Rev. Scotty McLennan, author of the book Finding Your Religion, compares humanity's innate need for spiritual searching to climbing a mountain. In his view, we are all endeavoring to climb the same figurative mountain in our search for the divine, we just may take different ways to get there. In other words, there is one "God," but many paths. I honor whatever path or paths you have chosen to climb that mountain in your quest for the Sacred.  |
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Charting New Territory
Like many congregations, ours canceled worship in person due to the coronavirus pandemic (we are gathering online for the time being). In one way, the coronavirus is a different kind of problem than we've experienced in recent history. Respiratory viruses are nothing new, but this one is very contagious and particularly dangerous for the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Thus, sheltering at home and good hygiene are important steps in reducing the spread. We’re all learning to adapt in ways we’ve never had to before.
In another way, results we are experiencing because of the coronavirus are a common variation of something that happens whenever we let our fears get the better of us. While common sense precautions are certainly in order at a time like this, panic and causing turmoil in the lives of others (by stockpiling and creating shortages of necessary items like hand sanitizer, bread, and toilet paper) are not. A story of a woman snatching the last package of toilet paper from an older man is appalling, but not all that surprising.
Astronaut Chris Hadfield once said - “There is no problem so bad you can’t make it worse.” He was referring to how we compound problems when we panic. While taking the disruptive-but-necessary precautions involved with social distancing, we’re also trying to resist becoming irrational. We want to find that sweet spot where we’re maximally responsible but not counterproductive or harmful to others.
When Christians began our Lenten journey a few weeks ago, we thought about Jesus’ time in the wilderness as a chance to “test his meddle.” Little did we know how much our own was about to be tested. As we now see, this is likely to be a challenging stretch of wilderness for us all. So how do we get through it?
We need accurate, timely information, cool heads, and teamwork. Follow the recommendations of the CDC, stay at home as much as possible, wash your hands, cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow, consult your health care provider if you have symptoms or think you may have been exposed. Don't buy more than you reasonably need. Practice self-care. And most importantly, be compassionate - ask neighbors if they need some help. Ask for help from neighbors if you need some. Stay connected.
Part of the reason we practice our faith in ordinary times, whatever that faith may be, is to be prepared for moments like this. Have faith in the Sacred however you understand it, and be one of the reasons we have faith in each other.
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Below you'll find some spiritual offerings from other WDC members. Please let the folks know if you read their piece by leaving a thoughtful comment or review.
From a few newer members - please read/review their item and welcome them to WDC!
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And a few more:
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For the worldwide fast held 3/29/2020 for the relief of effects of COVID-19 pandemic
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Here is a response to my last newsletter "Spiritual Newsletter (March 4, 2020)" about a "Lessons from the Wilderness:"
From Melisscious 
Thanks for this timely newsletter. As a 'raised' Catholic I have nothing against good manners and self-exploration. I was attracted by the word "Wilderness" in the title, as I spend a lot of time outside in forests. I live in a beautiful place to do that as well.
I absolutely enjoyed how you mention the need to unplug (it helps explain other people's behaviour as well). I would say the outdoors, nature, etc. is the ultimate form of self-care to me because it makes me feel closer to my grandad (whom raised me) and my grandad is my God.
Other things that make me feel lovely, (which is what I found your newsletter) are cooking something homemade and delicious (so usually healthy), cleaning; the house, my car, a mess, the bathroom, etc., taking a dog for a walk/petting one and gardening/plants.
I guess self-care might not include caring for others since you're putting yourself out. But if you're getting something from it as well, then it might?
My support system is successful people who are kind.
I was raised around monsters. They're successful but cruel.
I don't have 40 days to explain them or drive myself around the bend but suffice to say, I have one companion.
He's been dead for almost 30 years so it's kind of convenient, in that his opinion of me doesn't change, his love doesn't dwindle and he's immortal as long as I'm alive.
Unconditional love is a real double-edged sword.
Till next time, happy scribing!
Thank you so much for sharing some of your story!
           
From Quick-Quill 
I'm not catholic. My coworker is. Last year she gave up soda and chips. This year I told I'd help her, so no more Fast food breakfasts. We often buy for each other. I excluded coffee, though I will make mine at my desk. I realize it should be more about the spiritual aspect, but I do that throughout the year. I'm focusing on my diet and using my temptation to eat, by praying for strength.... All is good.
Sounds like an excellent plan.
Please keep your comments and suggestions coming! Until next time! Sophy |
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Spiritual: April 01, 2020 Issue [#10094]
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