And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
~Max Ehrmann, a snippet of the Desiderata
I have always, always loved this…benediction? Poem? I read it at my high school graduation, and even now, when I am in the throes of a panic as I was yesterday, I hear this bit in my head.
“…no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.”
And I breathe.
And remember that yes, the world will keep turning.
Despite my mini-failures along the way. Despite the actions of our despicable “President” these days, and those who align with his views across the world.
I don’t know what the plan is, what the end is, what it will all look like.
That doesn’t mean I stop working, stop advocating for change, stop trying to be a force for good.
That doesn’t mean that I stick my head in the sand, and just assume that everything can just go on without my contribution.
I do need to keep trying, to do better, to do more.
But I also know that there is a bigger process at work here. One I can contribute to, yes, but something that will continue to unfold when my short time on this planet is done.
So what do I take away from these seemingly contradictory thoughts?
Do good things, add to the positive balance of the Universe.
Actively work against those who aim to advance the negative, the dark.
We can shift the unfolding…we can make a better end.