We only know a living phenomenon or entity to the extent that we empathically enter into communion with him, her, or it. Otherwise, our knowing is merely intellectual, or worse, a projection of our own prejudices. In the final analysis, what we see happening in the Ukraine is a manifestation of evil. We must walk a razor-like line when it comes to evil. We have to acknowledge its existence and operations; yet, if we become obsessed with evil, we lose our conscious contact with God’s grace. Then we become part of the problem. For this reason Jesus said, “Be as innocent as doves and as clever as serpents.”
Yes, evil is real, and I cannot entirely explain how it could be so in light of the reality of a loving God. At the same time, grace is real, goodness is real, and love is real. The only effective way to deal with evil is to align ourselves with light and love. While Martin Luther King steadfastly confronted the evils of racism, he simultaneously invited racist individuals into the beloved community. We must acknowledge the shadows playing on the screen of history without being overshadowed by them. We must choose to be light.
Divine Mother,
I do not understand
How such evil can be,
Yet I can choose
To trust in you.
