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Hope and Renewal April 2020 Style
At this time of year, major religions offer stories about overcoming obstacles, pain and death. They have rites that make it possible to come together as a community to celebrate a spirit of hope and renewal.
Through thousands of years, before our major religions appeared on the scene, people celebrated spring. They looked forward to the renewal of nature’s growth cycle. They hoped for new life and opportunities.
Normally, at this time of year, I’d join in various community celebrations. Afterwards, I’d look forward to meals and merriment. It would feel ceremonial, like we were dusting off mental residue from winter blues together.
Normally, I’d be busy occupying myself with many activities involving other people at work and at play. Normally my family would be as well.
This year, we mostly rest.
Only, it is not restful to rest. It is filled with worry, anxiety, and doubt. It is filled with longing. Longing for activity. Longing for interaction with others. Longing for meaningful work.
Hope and renewal don’t easily thrive here. It takes effort to even think about it.
To counteract my feelings of futility, I head out on walks. I do this most mornings to start my day with physical activity outside.