Monday Message #7 (delivered late on Sunday)

Greetings Friends,

I am late because of too many personal matters having priority. I regret keeping you waiting but here
we are. Thank you for your patience.

The values employed in managing our country right now alarm me. My normal way in the day is to
be open to what is going on outside my head, what others are experiencing, and what I am feeling.
Today I hear an outcry of fear of the changes underway. Not surprisingly, I also hear expressions of
delight from those hoping for this change. Whatever the issue, we live in a society that has different
values. The election hasn’t changed these two contrasting views of American values.

First I reflect on my values, especially those I was raised with and have continued to feel right to me.
The call to action is forcing me, however, to go deeper than I want. For instance, my public persona
advocates for the ethical choices in life as I understand them. But my personal life requires owning
up to my Christian values which require more courage of action. The Gospels are clear that I am to
love God and to love my neighbor as myself. I can either rationalize this fundamental belief as
symbolic direction, or I can try to live that belief at least just for today. Today, I choose to live it, just
for today. One day at a time is a practical theology I learned in recovery from a disease. It’ a brilliant
strategy because I know I have enough courage to last today. Tomorrow is another day which I will
deal with tomorrow.

I will do today the next right thing given my deepest beliefs and commitments. I am meeting with a
communitarian and friend about forming a coffee/chat space in West Kennebunk. People need
spaces to meet and talk. I will also meet a doctor for a procedure required for health observation.
My health is a high priority at my new age of 82. I will attend to my ailing dog. I will support my wife
who broke her arm and is meeting with her doctor. I will call a friend who wants this new change in
governance, listen with respect and at the same time share my views. But we will depart as friends
while considering some new insights.

I can do the next right thing today as I see it. I am active in living my values and listening to others
with whom I share this planet.

Tomorrow is another day.