Do not be daunted
by the enormity
of the world's grief.
Do justly, now.
Love mercy, now.
Walk humbly, now.
You are not obligated
to complete the work,
but neither are you free
to abandon it.
The Talmud
by the enormity
of the world's grief.
Do justly, now.
Love mercy, now.
Walk humbly, now.
You are not obligated
to complete the work,
but neither are you free
to abandon it.
The Talmud
Thank you for this wonderful timely quote from the Talmud. For what I and my husband, Peter, are doing now, this quote has 'hit the spot'. We are moving to a nearby apartment complex, because of my severe arthritis and Peter's being fed -up with home ownership. We obtained a good price for our home, and are moving into the apartment progressively, before the closing date. Downsizing is a real challenge. Along with the decision-making processes are the memories which resurface from all the photos and mementos. We have been able to give much away to those who need it. I've been able to rid myself of old 'baggage' from my university days-over 50 years ago! Former students have helped me do this. They've given feedback when I held onto an item too long, with their pertinent questions about that item or research paper . Much better perspectives on my part emerged. What a relief to be rid of material which was of no longer use to the meaning for my life!
ReplyDeleteI think that the decision to engage and help those who ask for it comes from being able to rid oneself of old patterns, old items, which have lost their significance. It is a freedom I've been learning to give myself, incrementally, for several years. Yes, moving and downsizing is somewhat traumatic, tense and 'dramatic' , but the feeling of freedom and renewed strength to try to make our communities better is thrilling! It is not just moving into a new home, it is moving onward to newer and deeper wisdom!
Ridding oneself of old patterns - that's where I am at too. Habits take a while to deal with - replacing the old ones with better serving new ones. Good luck in your new home.
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