Introduction~ Conflict is an inherent aspect of human existence, and how we manage it determines whether we cultivate harmony or discord, whether it's a minor household dispute or a large-scale war. The roots of many conflicts can be traced back to ancient origins, and in the case of the Middle East, it may have started with Isaac and Ishmael.
The Genesis of Conflict ~In the Old Testament (Genesis 16:1–16; 17:18–26; 21:1–21), Sarah, the wife of Abraham, initially struggled to conceive, leading her to give her maidservant, Hagar, to Abraham to bear him an heir. Ishmael was born and raised in Abraham's household. Thirteen years later, Sarah gave birth to Isaac, and God established a covenant with Abraham, promising his descendants would become numerous. Isaac became the sole heir and Ishmael and Hagar were exiled to the desert with the assurance that Ishmael would father his own nation.
This division set the stage for the divergence of Judeo-Christian and Arab heritage.
True "Shalom, Shalom" (perfect peace) remained elusive from that point forward. Division and disputes evolved into violent and deadly conflicts, compromising the sanctity of human life.
Extremism and Darkness~ The world once again bears witness to ongoing conflicts between nations driven by extremists who are unwavering in their beliefs and fuel their actions with hate. As Martin Luther King Jr. aptly said, Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Our world seems far from when Jesus taught about loving our enemies, forgiveness, compassion, truth, and love. Today is marked by humanity's inhumanity towards each other. Have we become so arrogant, intellectually superior, and detached that we've lost our humility and sense of responsibility, whether to a higher power or a greater purpose?
Seeking the Light~ Martin Luther King's metaphorical light seems elusive in our times. However, a story from my journey offers a glimmer of hope. Thirty years ago, during my struggle with addiction, I encountered a simple card titled "Footprints." It recounted a dream where a man walked alongside the Lord along a beach. In moments of despair, he noticed only one set of footprints. When he questioned the Lord, he learned that during his trials, it was then that the Lord carried him.
I openly acknowledge that I have felt the Lord's presence throughout my life, from my earliest moments to my battles with addiction. He is my source of peace, love, and clarity of mind. In the face of ongoing horrors, be it war, political discord, or societal indifference, my heart has opened to embrace suffering and pray for all. While I may not change the world's trials, I believe He can, so I continue to pray.
The Gallery ~I revisited memories of Maine's foliage season thirteen years ago as our autumn's beauty withered in a late September heatwave. I offer glimpses of Acadia National Park, The Witch Hole pond, and a hidden, mystical bog. Amid it all, an eccentric pumpkin adorned one of our oldest village structures, and a dew-covered spiderweb challenged my photographic skills. Please enjoy these visual moments.
In the spirit of "Shalom, Shalom" (Perfect Peace), may we find solace and hope amid the ongoing turmoil.
With affection and humility,
The Maine bog looks like it’s on fire! Gorgeous!
Indeed it was! I never found it again when I returned.