On Monday morning my husband woke me up with the news about the mass shooting in Las Vegas. I felt an immediate gut punch to the stomach and my heart sink deep into my chest. As I looked at the news stories I felt disbelief and anger.
How could someone commit such a horrific act of cruelty?
What makes a person hate so much that they can take innocent lives?
What is happening to our world that shootings are a common occurrence?
How can I raise my children safely in such a fear-filled world?
As these thoughts raced around in my head, I knew I had to get quiet and go inward for comfort and clarity.
As I sat in meditation I decided to rest on the mantra, “choose love”. With every breath I took in, I silently recited “choose” and with every out breath, “love". Once my body and mind were in a calmer place I began to dig deeper by using a technique I’ve learned to help bring me clarity. I began to ask myself “what do I know is true?”.
Is it true that there are horrible people in the world, who do unthinkable things? Yes, absolutely.
Is it true that everyone in this world is evil-spirited and untrustworthy? No.
Is it true that I worry for my kids (and my own) safety? Yes.
Is it true that I should live in fear and let my fear keep me and my family from living our lives? No.
Is it true that I can access and choose love over hate? Yes.
I want someone to take the pain away. I want to live in a world where people are safe and free from hate. I want to live in a world where you can dance to your hearts content at a concert, letting the music fill your heart and soul, and know you are surrounded by love.
I know I can’t control other people’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. I know the truth is that I can only control my own thoughts, feelings and actions. And, on my mat I decided I would choose love.
No. Matter. What.
Every. Time.
I. Choose. Love.
My heart wants to, needs to, believe that one person choosing love can make a difference. I need to believe that the ripple effect will spread and surround those in pain with a loving embrace. I know, for me, it’s the only thing that can help ease the pain.
I will continue to take my mantra with me throughout the day, the week, the year, and my lifetime, if needed.
“Have enough courage to trust love one more time and always one more time.” ~Maya Angelou