What do I read and listen to when things get a bit wiggy?

I'm sure I'm not the only one feel increased dread and agitation as Tuesday approaches. I am finding I struggle to focus. That I'm avoiding the news cycle as much as possible. That I just cannot imagine the devastation that will be wrought upon our country if things go poorly. The nightmare scenario plays out in my head, and I am losing the ability to stop it. 

So what do I do? Coffee. Poetry. Music. Pray a lot.

These three poems keep running through my head, kind of like a mantra. I've often told people that poetry is important, because it gives us words when we can't find our own. It helps us shape our chaotic emotions. It reassures us, as much as anything can. 

So, here they are:

"The Peace of Wild Things" by Wendell Berry

"When I Have Fears" by John Keats

and 

"Wild Geese" by Mary Oliver

I'm sure there are more, and maybe you've got your own. Share them with me, with others, if you feel like you have a panacea for the world's ills, even a temporary one. 

O, and here's a song that may help, too (or will at least be fun to holler along with):

"What's Up" by Four Non-Blondes

And a favorite psalm... there are many, but this one comes to mind:

Psalm 121

 I lift up my eyes to the hills.
From whence does my help come?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
    who made heaven and earth.

3 He will not let your foot be moved,
    he who keeps you will not slumber.
4 Behold, he who keeps Israel
    will neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The Lord is your keeper;
    the Lord is your shade
    on your right hand.
6 The sun shall not smite you by day,
    nor the moon by night.

7 The Lord will keep you from all evil;
    he will keep your life.
8 The Lord will keep
    your going out and your coming in
    from this time forth and for evermore.

Maybe this little collection gives you a peek inside my noggin. I hope your Saturday is peaceful. 

C