I was reflecting today as I looked out my window as I watched six deer feeding in the yard, robins flying and seeking worms, trees cautiously beginning to bud and the ground melting and making mud so that the new life can emerge with flowers, new trees, etc. I thought how this focused my thinking about the greatness of The Creator – the wonders of the life that we have been given – and the challenges to keep our Common Home.

There is so much happening in this time, so many of the Creator’s family, son and daughters, who are in pain and many more who are searching for some hope for the future. But there in my yard was a small vision of hope – new grass, new buds, deer giving life, birds flying, and many other signs of hope.

I paused and prayed for the many disenfranchised women and men throughout the world. Those who are suffering because of who they are, what they stand for, the color of their skin (given to them by the Creator), their faiths, etc. I feared for a moment that we would never again see and understand diversity, equity, and inclusivity. But then I saw in the Earth a revitalization of this earth’s life: a new spring that gives me some moments of hope.

Now is the time to pray and to act for New Life. This April, the season of celebrating the Earth, maybe we can pause and pray for this new life in our lives. Maybe we can pause and remember that there is light after darkness, hope in the midst of despair, and wholesomeness in the eyes of our sisters and brothers who we meet each day. The late Pope Francis once said: “Who am I to judge.” What a great mantra – we are one with others who are our spiritual flesh and blood, our sisters and brothers. I believe we need to and can spring forward and become new examples of hope to those around us so that we take no one for granted. We also can pause and see the Earth come again to life. I heard this Sioux prayer and offer it for us all:

O our Mother, the Earth, hear us and give us support

O our Father, the Sky, hear us and make us strong

O Spirit of the East, send us your Wisdom

O Spirit of the South, may we tread your path of life

O Spirit of the West, may we always be ready for the long journey

O Spirit of the North, purify us with your cleansing winds

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FCM member Bob Funaro, EdD, LLP, is a psychologist and spiritual director. He is a member and convenor for the local Michigan group.