I recently was reminded of the steady decline of a loved one’s short term memory. So, I’ve had some deep reckoning with this change. What to do, how to interact, how to support and how to prepare. The grief and fear and faith that swirls around like tie dye colors, are real.
One of my go-to supports in book form, is A Course in Miracles Made Easy by Alan Cohen. Here’s what I opened to: “The ego is obsessed by planning because it believes that if it doesn’t control everything something terrible will happen. But the exact opposite is true. If the ego doesn’t control everything, something wonderful will happen! … More accurately, the ego’s preoccupation with control keeps you unaware that something wonderful is already happening. The only correct expectation of the future is one of limitless good. [The mind that plans] does not see that here and now is everything it needs to guarantee a future quite unlike the past, without a continuity of any ol ideas and sick beliefs. Anticipation plays no part at all, for present confidence directs the way.” -W-135,16:4-5
I need these touchstones to remind me that I’m not alone, there is a greater design at work, and I can rest into that reality; while being present and responsive. That’s a kind of independence.
I know this situation is not unlike what many of us are dealing with now in our lives of significant change and uncertainty. We have established and nurtured a relationship with each other that allows us to witness and mirror our experiences and wisdom. It bolsters me, keeps me buoyant and grounded.
What is touching your grief and faith these days?
And what is offering you support, uplifting and grounding?
How you feel is important and I value this opportunity to connect deeply in a positive and supportive way.
Perhaps you might want to take a few moments now and journal a few thoughts or feelings.
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