If you have been following my daily reflections, you are aware of the fact I have been saying that we are in an historical cycle of chaotic and steep challenges. Yet I have also said that God is using all of this messiness to purify, heal, and evolve the human race. In such a climate as this, our shadows or interior demons surface, often with great force. The inherent danger in all of this is that we tend to project our unhealed and unacknowledged issues onto others, our enemies and our leaders alike. The point is this: when another person stirs our anger, resentment, jealousy, or judgment, it is our own issue; they have simply struck a familiar nerve within us. Projecting our own toxic issues onto them just adds to the collective chaos that is so prevalent in our cancel-oriented culture — adding gasoline to the fire. Yet this does not mean we ignore, tolerate, or excuse destructive behavior in others. Rather, we must try to understand they are suffering and lost in the illusions of maya, just as we are. I am not going to soften the challenge of facing our demons; it is difficult and painful work which requires great courage. Without the loving support of others and a deep connection with God, it is impossible to do so. While enduring his own great suffering at the hands of others, Jesus prayed, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
Master Jesus,
You said that they didn’t know
What they were doing,
Yet I do know.
Forgive them;
They are suffering.
And forgive me;
I cannot overcome
My demons
Without you.
