Wage for Peace

Dear friends and colleagues, you are all pretty amazing.  Each unique and significant.

I read the snickering and snide remarks on social media about world politics; watch the news about the latest ISIS-inspired terrorist attacks; and hear strife about the 2016 Presidential campaign - and my soul hurts. For friends enveloped in political discourse, I can tell you that ~80% of your commentary and responses are based on emotion, not facts, and most of us are still waiting for the whole truth - which will never come. For those living and working in the heart of our nation's capital in Washington, DC (especially those actively making use of clearances) we are very much aware that reality is often much different than how it is publicly presented.

I look forward to the day when there are no more political parties - or none like there are today; when we all stop trying to burn out one another's candle thinking it will make ours shine brighter, and when we focus on what is right for our planet as a whole, our country of America as united, our states as unique and equal partners, with its peoples making the majority of the decisions for its constituents, rather than the Federal Government (and our right to leave, move and live in a state that suits our preferences, where, e.g., there are no "resident" and "non -resident" status - as in paying more for college - for goodness sake, as a resident of the EU, we didn't have that issue); where we live in our communities as a family in spirit, looking out for, stepping up and helping one another, where we respect the law and our peace officers, and our lives are more simple and free.

I will celebrating another birthday at election time this year. I have beaten cancer 3x. I work hard, I greatly enjoy what I do and with whom who I get to work. I would like to believe that by living, I have enriched the lives of some along the way.

But, I am tired. I don't like the self-righteous and self entitled behavior I see in so many of us, least of all in myself.

I have learned taking a deep breath before I speak or type really helps, as does listening more. I am more mindful to think how I might feel or react if someone spoke to me the way I am about to speak to them. Meaning, "old-fashioned" values are never old, and treating each other with courteous respect will always win.

I have led a full life, filled with adventure and learning. The world and new friends have welcomed me with open arms in nations spread across the globe. They and the travel bug continue to enrich my life, and my heart is filled with desire and gratitude. (London, Athens and Santorini coming up!)

The future still excites me - and because I have God in my life, and everyone of you - my family, my friends, colleagues, and sweet memories of all I have lived and of being loved; I know He has blessed me.

I know I still have much work to do - and, I have hope for us all.

Is anyone out there with me?

God bless us and keep us safe, everyone.