Social Distancing of Another Kind
The words ‘social distancing’ have become a catch phrase. We know what it means. Don our masks and keep six feet from others–as best we can without carrying a measuring tape.
Recently, however, I read a new way of looking at those words, while reading one of the daily meditations from Father Richard Rohr: “In order to have the capacity to move the world, we need some ‘social distancing’ and detachment from the diversions and delusions of mass culture and our false self.” (cac.org)
What a powerful truth. Many of us are experiencing that very thing even if we express it in different terms. We are letting go of shopping, partying, minding other people’s business and focusing instead on our own business, so we can give some of our resources to worthy causes, smile more at strangers even behind our masks, sit quietly and pray or read or meditate, and notice how satisfying it is simply to BE.
Do you remember the song, “What the World Needs Now Is Love?” It was a 1965 popular song with lyrics by Hal David and music composed by Burt Bacharach. First recorded and made popular by Jackie DeShannon, it was released on April 15, 1965.” (courtesy Wikipedia)
It became a commentary on/backlash to the Vietnam War. The anti-war slogan of the 1960s: “Make Love Not War” followed.
Today as we shed the ‘needs’ and ‘greeds’ of our pre-Covid lifestyle, perhaps we will have room for more love, sweet love. The world certainly needs it.
“God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us.” 1 John 4:17 (The Message)
Amen, dear Karen. Love you!
So good to hear from you, Judy. Blessings to you too.
This made my day!thank you for bringing back the memory of that beautiful song. yes… what the world needs now is LOVE!
You are very welcome, Chloe. Yes, love, sweet love.
Karen, thank you for this reminder. We are indeed shedding lots of extraneous activities and expenses and focusing more on what is truly important. And how the world needs love!
Thanks, Carol. Sometimes it takes quite a wake-up call for all of us to remember what really matters–love, sweet love.
This is so true Karen!
This season has forced each of us to retreat within our homes and hearts and examine our true selves. As a result, it has revealed our need for love–true, sincere, unconditional love.
You hit us right where we stand…in lines, six feet apart with masks on.
I’m enjoying the music flashbacks!
Smiles, BRC
Thanks for these lovely words, Beth. I’m with you on this.
Here is a song from my youth . It is great for this season of separation .
“Turn your eyes upon Jesus.
Look full in His wonderful face.
The things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace. “
Thank you for your encouraging words always
What an appropriate hymn for this time in particular. Thanks for sharing these beautiful lyrics.
Karen, I love that song! Thanks for reminding me of it! I am constantly singing to myself these old tunes~have lost my singing voice but thankful I can still talk~smile. When I try to sing I sound like Lucille Ball and then I laugh!
Thanks, my Friend.
Love to you, Margaret
Always good to receive your encouraging comments, Margaret.
We should all start singing that song again.
YES for sure, Janet. Our world certainly does need a good dose of love, sweet love.
Such a great song! Wow. Loved this post Mom.
Thanks, Julie. That song sure does bring back memories and is so appropriate for this time, as well, for all time, actually. Love you.
Amen! So true, Karen. Thanks, again, for the reminder to focus on loving each other, rather than focusing on the discord.