I have several thoughts for you as we go forward in the next few days.  I will open a Zoom room on Tuesday and Wednesday from 5 pm until 9 pm, for us to gather, breathe, pray, share time together. If I am not in the room, say hello – I may be able to come be with you from the kitchen!! I hope to see you there!  

I am in touch with colleagues in the DC area, and we are talking about how to communicate with each other and with our congregations, if we are called to show up in different ways: In providing support, in calling for action, in attending an event, perhaps being called to go to a place. I will let you know if we are needed, if we are being asked to help. I am holding so much hope, so much love, so much uncertainty.

I saw a great video about resilience, that invited us to notice our body sensations that would tell us that we are carrying greater stress or anxiety than usual. You can move yourself to greater equanimity by intentionally doing some very simple things: Breathing; Drink a glass of water with focus on the sensations.

Push against a wall, or touch the furniture, or reach down and touch the earth. Notice the colors in the room. It is a technique that grounds you in the here and now, and you might notice your breathing slowing, your heart rate calming, and your spirit settling. Take care of yourself.  

— Rev. Rachel