I know there are important world events unraveling, or rather unfolding, but I have not really put my attention there beyond the first few hours of the morning. I watched Hillary’s speech and wept. Not because I was a great fan but rather because I simply, like many women in the world, wonder how such a disrespectful man could become the president of a nation that is a democracy.  I wept because of what this means to females on a different level.  My country too has an issue with the glass ceiling. Yes, we have had a woman prime minister but she did not even survive six months in office. Why is it that the so-called developing world has us beat in the gender game? A senior at my church maybe had the best line of the post-election rhetoric when she said that she could not understand how a country that large and powerful could not come up with two qualified candidates to run.

That said before I went on with my day, I was simply grateful that God is still ruler of the universe and I entrust the plan there, knowing that somehow I might be of service to a desired outcome, though unlikely on a broad scale. God has done crazy things before. Pope Francis comes to mind as a surprise candidate to change the world. At his election, many thought the Church might step backwards into the Dark Ages but clearly the Spirit was blowing. Once I reconciled that thought, I turned my energies to these past few months.

I feel behind on many things–emails, thank yous, rest, planning, and a never-ending to-do list. As I settle into my new home, I am grateful for all those who helped move, pack, declutter, feed, and encourage me. Slowly, I am rising from the weariness of all that and looking at catching up on other people’s lives,  completing some tasks, and setting out a plan.  I am enjoying God paint spectacular sunrises out my front window. Every morning, I stand at the kitchen window and breathe, gazing upon the cross. I am beginning to settle in and it feels good. Tonight, I pulled out a table cloth that I had never used at my former place and it made me smile to see it again. Every day I add a little something to my surroundings and it delights me to call the space home in a different way.

I am also getting around to ordering the furniture from the party donations. I have selected the style and have some fabric choices.  Hopefully next week I can dedicate some time for that. I also am thinking of the scholarship fund that was established in my name and know that I need to get serious about promoting that too. Today I saw my financial advisor to begin to organize a few other tasks that need to be done. What I notice is that there is a certain amount of energy for these items which I did not have when I was looking for a place to live. That made me think of people who are poor who cannot find the energy to engage in social justice issues because the daily grind is enough to take on.

I find that I am much calmer than I have been in a while and that is a gift. If you are one of the people who I keep saying that I want to see you, know that I mean it. I miss a number of people in my life and wish I had more energy. If I have not thanked you for a generous act or a kind word, know that I thank God every morning and each night for all of those who are praying for me or plodding along with me.  I look forward to regaining my energy bit by bit and to focusing on getting back on track. Thanks for your patience and understanding.

Peace,

Suzanne

Reflection Questions

What does home mean to you?

What are you grateful for right now?

Prayer

You are still in charge, Creator God, and whatever happens, you are Sovereign. I pray for women who your Son Jesus respected and appreciated.  I pray for world leaders everywhere that they may listen to your voice and be shining light to all who struggle in the darkness. Have mercy on us, and save us. Amen.