PEBBLE
May we never get so used to seeing things from our one point of view that we forget to see them from other points of view. Because it’s true what they say: There’s more to a thing than meets the eye.
~Billy Jack Brawner, shared by Jeanne in Wisconsin
BOULDER
Too often humanity sees difference as danger…we judge before we understand.
But Grace whispers, “Wait,” and Curiosity asks, “Why.”
Imagine if instead of saying, “You are not like me,”
we asked, “What can I learn from you?” or
“What light do you carry that I do not?”
And maybe, just maybe…on the other side of that question mark
is the answer, right there waiting for everyone.
Grace makes space.
Curiosity leans in.
Together they can carry us toward one another.
Grace and curiosity are not luxuries…they are remedies.
Remedies for division, of which there’s so much in the world right now.
~Pharrell Williams’ opening remarks during Grace for the World, shared by Sally in Nebraska
PONDER
Earlier this month some curious Ripplers joined me for a Zoom conversation about staying steady and intentional in unsettled times*. During our groovy time together, I shared with them a simple question that’s been playing an unexpectedly useful role in my meditations and general ponderations of late: What is this?
I’ve been asking the question over and over again while meditating and as I move through my daily activities—it’s been an interesting journey. This question has allowed me to cultivate curiosity, tamp down judgment, and look past my initial reactions at both smaller and larger things.
There’s a lot landing on our hearts and nervous systems right now. (Understatement, your party is waiting for you in the lobby.) I don’t always know the best way to respond to it all—but I’m learning that pausing to ask, “What is this?” helps me soften my grip on immediate reactions and make room for curiosity instead.
I don’t always find clarity—but I do find more space. And in that space, grace has a better chance to whisper and curiosity has more room to lean in. That extra beat won’t solve everything. But it might help us stay a little more human with ourselves and with one another. And right now, that feels like a meaningful place to begin.
If the world feels especially loud this week, maybe try carrying this question with you.
What is this?
Peace,
Paul
*P.S. You can catch the replay of my Zoom talk on YouTube, or listen via The Ripples Pondcast.