In the ashes of bad outcomes, one is left with a question. Does one celebrate the outcome and stop? In the context of events at hand, as a victor in some, loser in others, the question resonates. I am not doubting the benefit and reason when winners celebrate outcomes. This follows a pattern established centuries ago as captured in old writings; “The judgment on them carried out to the letter – and all who love God in the seat of honor! Hallelujah!” (Psalm 149.9). I am questioning the momentum of both sides into what comes next.
The battle between good and evil, community versus “I”, love versus the absence of love, continues. Yesterday’s battle is not the end. The final battle is still ahead. The outcome of yesterday may give shape to today’s battle, however the crux of the conflict remains the same. Am I battling for good or am I an agent for evil? Am I living for my community or is it all about my inner self?
While there is a time for everything, is there also an unrelenting cry for care and compassion? I find a lesson celebrating as a foundation to build courage and strength for what one knows lies ahead. When I embrace this approach, highs are tempered and seen in context of the opportunities which remain untouched and unfulfilled. As celebrations morph into a springboard, I hear a whisper reminding me that my new height is the result of Divine love. The elevation was because of the cause I was invited to. The story is both my own and, at the same time, so much more.
With every pile of ashes, I find myself thinking of the Buddhist priest facilitating the transition of a beloved mother in law’s ashes to an urn. As we took turns moving what remained of a life well lived to its interim resting place, young and the old present shared her/his stories of the past and present. It became a celebration of our shared pain intertwined with an invitation to a fresh opportunity.
