As we continue to see an escalation of violence and many structures are crumbling, it can be overwhelming to know how to hold it all. The old ways of using words to convince others are not working.

Sunday I turned to a spiritual practice that supports me in deep listening with images. The elements of this collage came through in under ten minutes. It was as if the collage was breathed through me.

The handwritten quote is one I heard from Cynthia Bourgeault at the Holding Our Planet Wisdom School in May.

Christian mystic Jacob Boehme said:

“Here, now is the right time for you to wrestle before the divine face. If you stand firm, if you do not bend, you will see and perceive great wonders. You will discover how Christ will storm the hell in you and will break your beasts.”

I’m both drawn to and resist this strange quote. The language is more intense than I would usually use to describe my experience with spirituality, but this year I’ve had to reckon with some of the hell in me, and I sort of like imagining Christ being in it with me.

It’s been a time to glance at what’s lurking in my shadows, gently and kindly — a time to welcome what I’ve exiled and release burdens that have overstayed their welcome. I’m terrified every single time I do it, but it feels worse when I ignore that which is calling to be illuminated. This hospitality frees up energy and space for conscious engagement.

The title for this piece that kept arising in me is from the song “Let There Be Peace on Earth.” The lyrics say “And let it begin with me.” I’ve changed “with” to “with(in)” as an expression of all I’ve described above.

I’d love to hear what this collage stirs in you if you’d like to share!

Love, Kirsten

Would you like some company as you attune to your inner landscape? Kirsten offers spacious accompaniment and trauma-informed spiritual direction. I’d love to hear what’s stirring in you and meet with you for a free exploration session.