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| Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5 |
We used to turn on the television news first thing when we got up. But lately we have not done that every day. Because I had not watched in several days, I decided I should see what was going on this morning. I flipped on the TV while I was making coffee. You can imagine my horror and sorrow at what I saw before 7:00 AM. Breaking news coverage of the shooting in Las Vegas.
It was hard to stop watching the tragedy unfold. Then I realized I needed to turn it off and go find something else to do. Do laundry. Clean. Pull weeds. Do something. Do anything. But not stay glued to the news.
This afternoon I read these words from a pastor friend. She offers a positive, helpful way to deal with a horrific situation. I thank her for these words that are both positive and practical:
Some thoughts for today:
- Watch only enough media to be informed.
- Pray for the living and the dead, first responders, medical teams, and caregivers.
- Reach out in a way that brings peace to someone you come in contact with today.
- Ask (and answer) the question, "How can I help build bridges of hope?"
- Find a moment of beauty and thank God for that gift.
Great practical suggestions. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteKathy, my friend is as wise as she is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteIt is true, isn't it? We can make a positive difference some how.
ReplyDeletegoodnightgram, Yes, we can't fix the world but we can make our little spot on the earth a kinder place to be.
ReplyDeleteNews can be so toxic yet we need to be informed. It's like walking a tightrope over Alice's rabbit hole. We can only process so much without becoming anesthetized. Such thoughtful advice is much appreciated.
ReplyDeleteYes. When news is 24/7 is is overwhelming. When I watch too much, it makes me feel bad physically, which helps not one person.
ReplyDeleteHello to you! I have given up on the news, though I sometimes read briefly on-line. The focus on negative takes a toll. Your pastor friend had wonderful ideas of how we can find and give solace in today's world. (And now I must read your next post about wine cake!)
ReplyDeleteHi, Barb! So good to hear from you again. Thankfully, for the last couple of days I've read much more about kindness than I have about tragedy. I know that the bad news should not be ignored, because we need to be aware. But I also have learned that a steady diet of it is toxic.
ReplyDelete