Yesterday, it was on how making even a simple change can clear out a path for the Divine's ever-present help in making the deeper changes that are beyond earthly powers. Right where I am, looking at my beyond-the-beyond cluttered house, a problem that seems to have escalated as I've made once unimaginable strides in other areas of my life.
His talk was a boot to my butt, spurring me to start clearing out. In just working on one small area, came across drawings of Mim's to incorporate into her online memorial tribute & other well-timed treasures. And a photocopy of a favorite saying of Mom's, in her writing.
Looking at it, years dropped away. Was swept with memories of an unforgettable moment, a much-needed lesson learned.
About fifteen years ago, Mom & I were talking about a challenging situation. She mentioned it made her think of something that got her through tough times & started quoting, "Lord, grant me..."
I cut her off - yeah, yeah, yeah. The Serenity Prayer. Yada yada yada.
Even as I let loose with my dripping condescension, realized it was plenty high & mighty of me to get snarky about something that meant a lot to Mom. My sense of personal shabbiness was compounded on learning that was NOT what she was quoting.
The actual quote captures the woman who started doing an in-depth self-examination at 89 years old; who went from bonding with each of us to being able to step back, to open up a space that allowed her to gain perspective & insight before responding.
Lord, grant me the perception to see the problem,
wisdom to find a solution,
courage to carry it out,
I pray Thee.
Where Mom found it, I never knew. But its wisdom & the memory of reacting rather than listening with an attentive heart lights my path.
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