Showing Up



https://ignatiansolidarity.net/blog/2021/03/19/steadfast-showing-up/


Friday’s reflection from the ISN reminds us to show up for others and for the sake of justice even in the moments when we feel overwhelmed and tired.

 

          I feel overwhelmed and tired this week, especially after hearing more information about the ongoing hate crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. In addition to that, I face the challenges that are part of everyday life: schoolwork, work, personal struggles, etc. As we continue to face the effects of the pandemic, I feel stuck mentally and physically. I find myself constantly asking God to show me the way and lead me through this difficult journey. 

  

          But then I remind myself that all these thoughts and emotions are normal. In fact, maybe my reactions to hate crimes and the circumstances of life as we face it today will help lead me towards something greater. Either way, this is where I stand today, and I am going to accept that.

 

          I think God calls on each of us to meet ourselves where we are at each day. If each of us are God’s children, then isn’t that enough? If our bodies are temples of God’s love and grace as Ignatian spirituality reminds us, then I believe that means we ought to love and take care of ourselves. I believe it also means we ought to share this love and grace that is God with others.

 

          And what better way to show love right now than to meet people where they are at in this present moment? We all carry our own crosses. In addition to the random challenges that arise in life, some people face the daily burdens of racism and discrimination. We just do not know what people are dealing with. We do not know where they are mentally, physically, or spiritually unless they share that with us. But I think the best thing we can do to show God’s love is just to be there and accept one another wherever we stand today. As ISN’s Lenten Journey is titled, this is “A Call to Love.”

 

Kristen S.

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