It's Spiritual Journey Thursday and this month Maureen Ingram is hosting with the theme, Community. This is particularly pertinent to me since we recently moved into a new community that has shared interests, values, and hopes. Many settled here before me to be closer to their families. I did the same and am grateful that there is a sense of belonging and acceptance in my new neighborhood.
It is necessary when being part of a community, whether it be a social, educational, or political one, to find a common bond. People do not have to be of the same personal mindset but have common goals for the betterment of all within.
Mother Teresa spoke in inspirational terms about communities, alluding to the fact that we need to bond together in peace and love. "If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other." Mr. Rogers reminded us that we need to bring kindness to our neighborhoods. Both inspired people to do, not just be. As Mother said, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” A tiny ripple can cause a change in attitude, as can love and peace.
I feel a great need to live in peace, to be part of a community of faithful individuals who understand the value of being neighbors, friends, and co-workers. One of the songs of the late 60s, "Get Together" by the Youngbloods, inspires me to continue to be community-centric. These stanzas are relevant then and still today.
If you hear the song I sing
You will understand, listen.
You hold the key to love and fear
All in your trembling hand.
Just one key unlocks them both.
It's there at your command.
Come on, people now
Smile on your brother.
Everybody get together.
Try to love one another right now.
I created a blackout poem from the lyrics to Get Together. The words remind me to find the right measure of positivity as a member of my community.
Love's song sings.
Mountains ring.
Smile everybody now.
We are a moment.
Love now.
Get together.
Try, people.
Get together.
Hear, understand, listen,
Unlock.
Love now,
right now.
©CVarsalona, 2022, black-out poem
💌
In the early morning, I send out my thoughts to my Spiritual Journey Thursday community of faithful friends. Thank you, Maureen Ingram, for hosting and choosing a theme that let me ponder. I look forward to reading all of the different blog posts.
Peace to All.
