The higher angels of our nature

What is it about setting a new, hopeful course that seems to draw out obstacles from all directions? It's something I don't yet understand about the nature of life, but I see it happening all around me. When we struggle, flip-flop, hem and haw about something, life carries on its usual waves--this day is a little hard, this day is great, this day was productive, this day wasn't...and on it goes.

But somehow when we mobilize our efforts and firmly commit to something, it seems like a process of testing arises. Are we really serious about our commitment? Will our faith really hold? Will we keep making choices in alignment with our highest vision? Or will we be tempted to slip back into the old comfortable despair, believing we aren't able to affect change, blaming someone else for the mess we find ourselves in?

I don't have any real answers to this, but it seems that this period of testing really does come. I don't personally believe God puts these tests in our path, but they do appear to arise. Maybe it's the classic Jesus-in-the-desert tempation. Sure, you want to act hopefully, but what will you do when the economy falls at your feet? Yes, you want change and collaboration, but here's a corrupt politician to tempt you into believing (yet again) that power corrupts and no one in politics can be true to his word.

It seems to me we're in a period of testing, as a people, as a nation, as a world. Will we believe in the good we've chosen? Our resolve is being tested, but this too shall pass. We're overcoming the old patterns and temptations bit by bit, choice by choice. We may see some corrupt politicians flushed out of office. We may see more faltering happen before we fly. But change is unfolding, and no matter what, the good that is already here can't be undone.

God, we thank you for the blessing of far sight, encouraging friends, the vision of goodness. We thank you for touching our hearts and drawing us toward all the best qualities your love shines out--honesty, integrity, compassion, hope, unity, gentleness, creativity, the higher angels of our nature. May we stand firm in our choices and watch for the beauty that is emerging in this country even--and especially--now. In your name of love and light, we pray. Amen.