Merriam-Webster defines “equilibrium” as a state of intellectual or emotional balance or a state of adjustment between opposing or divergent influences or elements. In our ourselves, in our families and communities we struggle to maintain equilibrium – I find myself at times much more like a wildly swinging pendulum than still water. Balance is an art that is a life project and one whose path is not a straight line, but full of detours and dead ends. Which is to say that this being human is glorious mess, a lifelong composition, like a song we get better and better at singing. As I wrote that line I was reminded of this beautiful song from Jason Isbell, an anthem for the resilient and hopeful: “Our day will come, if it takes a lifetime.”
And so as we wobble back to an approximation of balance at the start of this week, I share with you John O’Donahue’s blessing for Equilibrium. May you find what you need to feel safe, well, and supported today. And may the blessing of God or all that sustains you keep you safe, grant you peace and fill you with all that you need, just for today. Amen
Like the joy of the sea coming home to shore,
“For Equilibrium,” by John O’Donahue
May the relief of laughter rinse through your soul.
As the wind loves to call things to dance,
May your gravity be lightened by grace.
Like the dignity of moonlight restoring the earth,
May your thoughts incline with reverence and respect.
As water takes whatever shape it is in,
So free may you be about who you become.
As silence smiles on the other side of what’s said,
May your sense of irony bring perspective.
As time remains free of all that it frames,
May your mind stay clear of all it names.
May your prayer of listening deepen enough
To hear in the depths the laughter of God.