All Manner of Things Shall Be Well
When I was in Seminary, I wrote a paper on Julian of Norwich. I chose her because the word Norwich was in her title and I had a beautiful female Norwich Terrier at that point and I felt they were related. (such lofty motivation…it’s about a dog). She became known for her phrase…all shall be well….all manner of things shall be well.
She lived through two bouts of the Bubonic plague and other difficult events- she is considered the church’s first psychologist as she had a window she would sit by, and counsel people as they came to her. The original drive by. She was not frightened by events or daunted by the times but held steadfast to the idea that all things work together for good-long before that verse became popular.
As the days unfold and I begin to learn about my new life- I find myself wondering about that “good” thing. Can I really trust that – or is that a nice idea that people of faith pull out when they are trying to cheer you up.
Miracles have shown up in these sad moments…I had a completely unknown landscape person handle all my pine needles (when I say ALL I mean a LOT of pine needles from this winter). The business affairs that needed to move forward have just shown up in an easy way, and each day I take steps to handle them. People have offered to help me sort through clothes and things that need to be recycled (thank you Teri) without my asking for help. Something I am not very good at doing.
Kindness has appeared everywhere – from the postal clerks to grocery clerks – a kind word – a warm smile- an understanding heart. So once again if I am paying attention – good things abound. From every tear, a new appreciation of love is planted in my heart and I realize how much the world needs more love and understanding…something I can do from the comfort of my living room.
A gesture born out of appreciation is likely to bring forth fruit and the pain is transmuted and transcended to a new level of joy and purpose.
Join me this week in knowing all shall be well – and then bring it on!
