Pain, Patriots Day, and Praise

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Yesterday Charlie Kirk was killed at UVU.  Today is the anniversary of the terrorist attack on the U.S. that killed so many.  There is so much pain in the world, and yet there is good too.  I drove to the store today and saw many places that were flying, or displaying the stars and stripes -- the U.S. flag.  It reminded me of the much too short season after the terrorists attacks when it seemed like our country was united.  We had a common enemy, a common sadness and fear.  We lived in a country of freedom and were united against tyranny.

We still have a common enemy, and that is hate.  Hate brings fear, and division, and violence.  That enemy is conquered by love.  Love listens to understand, love knows that it is okay to be different and that compromises can only come if we take the time to talk to people, and listen.  Especially listen.  Let us unite behind the banner of freedom to love, help, understand, and forgive.

I have a vision statement that I write most days.  I change it occasionally and recently added "I praise God in every situation."  This statement has been a good reminder when hard things, or difficult feelings crop up.  There is always, always, something to be thankful for, which means there is always something to praise God for.  I praise Him for people who rush into danger to help.  I praise Him for all of those who reach out in love to those who are hurting.  I praise Him for the freedom to choose, which is also the freedom to learn and grow and forgive.

Today there is pain, grief, and loss.  Today there is also love, hope, and healing.  I choose to praise God for love, and for all who choose love over hate.