"Do not let the sun go down on your anger." How can one really live this way? The emotions, all the stress, the challenges and disappointments take a toll on us and somehow we are to navigate expectation and longing, loneliness and grief all in this season. I stood at my kitchen window, morning sun skimming off the pond, wondering how to not let my emotions define my whole being. What if years have gone down on my anger, never mind the day? Slowly, sorting the berries for bread, I realized that inside I have sifting to do- not every emotion is something to build on; some need to be washed and included, some let go of and some thrown away- not fit for use. Looking back at the ruins of childhood I see anger, sadness, and shame. What a gift. Feel the emotions for sure, but then, after seeing they do not belong in my life I can let them go, hang onto hope and dance in the day I've been given.
Soul Medicine from Ancient Writing
"The reason the devil plunges us into thoughts of despair is that he may cut off the hope which is towards God, the safe anchor, the foundation of our life, the guide of the way which leads to heaven, the salvation of perishing souls. "For by hope," it is said, "we are saved." For this hope is like some strong cord suspended from the heavens supporting our souls and drawing us to heaven."
Chrysostom Fourth Century Letters To The Fallen Theodore Letter 1 NPNF1:9; 2.93
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