October 8, 2008
I received this email from Randall Butisingh, a wonderful, wise man I met through the Internet. Randall is an elder to almost all of us, since he is in his 90’s. I share his words to inspire you:
“We are all, when we choose, 100% saints and also 100% sinners. That is the challenge in our lives. In the present we are faced with our greatest challenges; a diminishing environment, economic deficiency, attack by terrorists, the proliferation of the Aids virus and other dreadful diseases; all caused by man’s greed, his excesses, his selfishness and recalcitrance. But this should not affect those who love and have the inner peace. Bear in mind, the darker the night, the brighter and more brilliant the stars. So it is with evil – the greater the evil, love and mercy and forgiveness manifest to a greater degree. This we can see in the work of selfless individuals, charitable organizations and benevolent governments. What happens outside of us is of very little consequence and is transitory, but what takes place inside of us is what greatly matters; like the continuous ticking of the clock in the most violent storm.
Here is a stanza from a hymn that bears me out:
“A faith that shines more bright and clear
When tempests rage without;
That when in danger knows no fear,
In darkness feels no doubt.”
Thank you, Randall, for your long life of service, faith and love. You are a blessing to this Earth.
Filed under peace