It is tempting to succumb to despair, in the midst of the mass killings at the Florida high school last week. I can feel my own despair and anger drag me into a dark abyss with no hope for light. But when that happens, then I cannot be in a state of mind to act with conviction in response to this tragedy.
So, I offer a reflection that may speak to you in the midst of your darkness and pain over this senseless tragedy. It was written by my dear friend, Vicki L. Flaherty. I welcome your comments as to how this reflection speaks to you.
Where the Clouds End
It starts like the rustling of paper.
As the wind breezes through the leaves,
dust swirls into a gauzy haze.
The skies darken with foreboding.
Gray blackness looms like a blanket.
Ripe round droplets tap, tap, tap.
And crescendo into a deluge.
The storm exhausts herself.
And the rains back away.
Their cleansing work complete.
Silence follows the clamor.
At the line where the clouds end,
the filmy ceiling dissolves into the heavens.
Nourishing waters soak deep into the earth.
Calming light returns anew.
Trees stand steady and tall.
Grasses dance with grace.
Flowers rise to the joyful sun.
Peace lies softly in the air.
And Then Opens Possibility by Vicki L. Flaherty, 2017, Turas Publishing