It was a week marked by news of more gun violence, coupled with celebration of a royal wedding. Opposite ends of humanity, yet both highlighting the need for more love in this world.
At the root of the episode of violence is a young man whose needs are not being met, and every part of us has to muster the empathy to understand the behavior. Somehow there is lack of guidance, support and attention. Something isn't right. Something is not being addressed.
Across the pond, we have a wonderful Episcopalian Bishop leading a beautiful ceremony who quotes de Chardin stating " if humanity ever captured the energy of love, it would be the second time in history that we have discovered fire." Bishop Curry continues " when we discover the redemptive power of love, we will make of this old world, a new world."
It is nearing the end of a month focused on Mental Health. It's a subject that gets categorized with stigma, shame and embarrassment and is most often an issue that is not being addressed unless a drug can help or a professional intervenes.
Truth is, mental health is something to tend to every day. If we are lucky, daily struggles can be tended to by some means that we've figured out for ourselves. For some, it's as simple as eating well or getting the chance to work out, hydrate, meditate, read or talk with a friend. Nap when we are exhausted, eat if we are "hangry" or feeling imbalanced, to reach out if we are in trouble. (Who are you without your daily caffeine?). But these are coping mechanisms that we learn as we grow...again, if we are lucky.
Most children, youth, teens are not in touch with why they are feeling "off" today. Most are not offered guidance, suggestions that can help them through tough times or even have examples around them they can look up to in times of confusion.
It's not something remedied in a paragraph or song, but every little bit of acknowledgement and conversation helps. Thank you to all professionals, therapists, educators, administrators of schools and hospitals, doing what you can to implement tools these kids need.
As musicians, our song, "I Am Here", addresses the daily struggles that most all of us know of from time to time. Seeing our issues as stories, moments that will pass, or focusing on love can all help. You can hear and Download the song below
It was a week marked by news of more gun violence, coupled with celebration of a royal wedding. Opposite ends of humanity, yet both highlighting the need for more love in this world.
Saturday, May 19th - NOON! / New Holland, PA
