We must remind ourselves and each other of this truth: we are not alone in this. Our strength, our resilience, our very survival lies in our community, in the way we hold each other through hard times. This is the power of our connection. Each of us has a role to play in sustaining our shared spirit, in being a source of strength for one another, even as we grapple with our own emotions.

In a world of chaos, there are many things that I simply do not care about—not over or instead of the impact ?chaos has on our lives……what do you not care about these days

I believe that the rocks are crying out. Like Barnabas on the side of the road, “Jesus, son of David, have mercy on us.” The disciples told Barnabas to be quiet but he got louder and louder. The difference is that Barnabas was blind and stuck—our children can see clearly. They are crying out, but they won’t stay put on the side of the road. Will we respond while they are still close enough for us to hear?

Love is a state of being more so than a list of behaviors. The scripture says to be patient and kind, not to act, a subtle but distinct difference. Loving our neighbors is easier said than done. I confess I have not loved my neighbors.