The pendulum I'm swinging on...

I'm honestly swaying like a freakin' pendulum between extreme existential dread and the anticipation and joy of the Christmas season and what it historically promises. 

The hate that was unleashed over the last several years, all bolstered by extremists both nationally and globally, is leaching into my mind-set, and I want it out. Out out out. 

It's hard to fathom how so many angry, disaffected, and deeply (willingly) misinformed people are claiming Christian affiliation, while persecuting so many other people, especially those who are not part of the mainstream in their ethnicity, gender expression, or other status. And women-- women getting pummeled daily on social media and in person-- the rise of "your body, my choice" promulgated by a rising number of nasty boys (and started by white supremacist and monster Nick Fuentes) threatens real danger to women. 

And yet, we sing carols and hymns celebrating Mary, the Mother of God. 

I'm troubled by all of this hateful behavior, and I'm fearful of the dark cesspool from which all of this hate springs. The prayer to St. Michael that we recite every Mass begs for protection from "Satan and all the other evil spirits that roam about the world, seeking the ruin of souls." Sometimes, I think the dark side is winning. 

I won't take up this space to share my anger and dismay about the Cabinet nominees, but you can figure out what is up. There is just too much there to unpack, and I don't feel qualified. I sure wish they felt the same way, because they are all frauds and charlatans--some very dangerous.

So what can we --I-- do? I promised myself to keep the blinders on, head down, and live each day with loving attention and intention. I'm still trying, but I feel like there are huge cracks opening up in the path before me. I know there are many people who feel that this world-view is histrionic, and there are just as many who feel the same way. I will do my part to push back against the evil and the darkness. 

C