The harrowing events in the Middle East continue to burden my heart and mind with sadness and fear. The past three weeks have been difficult to say the least. It is during times such as these that I find myself (more than ever) needing to nourish my soul, while being present to the people in my life.
Often, it is the things that I cherish the most that are a balm to my spirit. The closeness of one I hold dear, my dog running with abandon through golden leaves as they dance to the ground, the sound of my grandchildren laughing, the sound of the stillness that surrounds me when/where I am safe at home.
It can become un-nerving for me to feel safe while being cognizant of the dangers and life –
threatening situations that others are forced to endure. And yet, I know that I must persevere in focusing on the present situation I am in. The beauty of nature has been and continues to be my solace in almost every situation, especially now. There is beauty all around me, it is always there, ever during my “worst days”. Wildflowers and holly berries, budding branches and falling leaves, enchanting sunrises inviting me into a whole new day, while brilliant sunsets usher me. into night-time. Some nights are brilliantly lit with moonlight and starlight, while other night are dark, perhaps even stormy. Life is like that, storms and peace, sorrow and joy, but always the natural beauty remains. Mountains like quiet sentinels stand still while we destroy one another and this beautiful earth. The ocean waves continue to roll in and roll out no matter what the current events are.
Looking at the everyday miracles, taking in the beauty that I see in a leaf, or a raindrop or a smile or a cloud….helps to ground me when I might otherwise be overwhelmed with grief during these difficult times. When times are not so difficult, this practice of taking in the beauty around me nurtures me and brings me peace, reminding me that I too must persevere. I must do my best to be true to myself and bring the best I can to the world around me. I am comforted by the enduring and constant beauty of nature, of knowing that the stars will always shine, that the sun will always rise and set, and that the waves, as always, will roll in and roll out.
Domenica Rafferty, LPC 