I saw Fr. Gene, the Norbertine priest with whom I do my spiritual direction. here at their Abbey in Albuquerque, on Friday. We were discussing world events and how they impact the reactions of many people. Particularly, how many people are living in fear.

I am well aware of what’s happening around the world and around me. I don’t discuss it here (I reserve those discussions for the people I walk my dogs with and the dinner table with Greg and others) partly because I can’t let it distract me from the goals and dreams I have. My inspiration is strong and I don’t want to wake up in twenty years, sorry I didn’t do the things I had the opportunity to do.

I also believe one of my roles in this world/life is to contribute on a positive level. There is much I can’t change, but what I can do is throw positive energy into the world by sharing what I create and my inspiration.

That said, it’s not that life is perfect. There is a constant struggle and worry about various things. Some days are very quiet where I am in my bubble creating. There are days I have to go out in the world and not let my irritation with people not paying attention as they drive (or leave their shopping carts in the middle of the aisle! Or look that someone else is coming another way with a shopping cart!) get to me. Sometimes I believe it might be easier to stay in bed and ignore the world. And yet, that’s not the life I truly want to lead.

I am constantly inspired and that’s what I want to share.

Fr. Gene called this the endurance of faith. Maybe because I’ve had so many losses and challenges, I don’t blame God for what’s happening in the world (I listened to many people do this after losing a loved one to suicide). I know that somewhere down the line many things will get better although that doesn’t mean the road to get there will be smooth.

In many ways, it’s sort of like this photo of me hiking up to the M at the University of Montana in Missoula earlier this summer– there were some rocks I had to maneuver past and then there was a smooth spot. Life can be rocky. And then it’s smooth. We are grateful for those smooth moments, but we must remember to use the rocky moments, the challenges, to teach us how to be stronger and keep our heads held high with hope and light.