Will the sun still rise tomorrow? + Le bénéfice du doute
Wednesday, October 04, 2017
I am busy looking up the term bénéfice du doute--all the while doubting this is the way to begin today's letter. I am numbed, saddened, and shaken by the carnage in Las Vegas, as well as by the hurricaines and earthquakes, and by more local terrorism. Two girls, cousins my daughter's age, were stabbed to death Sunday--at the Gare St Charles in Marseille. Only a few weeks before, in the same train station, 4 young girls, fellow Americans, survived an acid attack. Our thoughts go out to these victims and their families and we send our support (feel free to recommend charities in the comments box. My friend Jo Ellen listed this one, for Puerto Rico, and Margaret listed The Red Cross. Thank you!)
As we all attempt to process these atrocities, let's remember to be respectful to others. This is a tempting time to point fingers at or ridicule those around us. There is an urge to find somebody to blame or someone to be the dunce when none of us truly know what will happen next and therefore how to prepare for it.
A few days ago a reader angrily signed off my newsletter. Referring to a post in my archives, she accused me of caring more about my broken fountain than the hurricaine in Houston. Reading her comment, I was stung by the power of words. Then, this morning, while scrolling through Facebook I saw, in response to the Las Vegas massacre, a cartoon ridiculing those who believe in God. It characterised believers as people who do not live in reality.
(Not living in reality? I thought of the past year-and-a-half--of the past 14+ years of facing each and every day without so much as an aspirin to dull my senses. But this essay is not about sobriety.)
I wasted a lot of time staring at that cartoon, trying to form a response in defence of faith. The more I tried the more fired up I became. And then I thought, What kind of example am I when I respond in anger? When I lash out? When I end up ridiculing the one who ridicules?
But it took my 20-year-old daughter to help me see things in a different light. Regarding the angry subscriber, Jackie said, "Mom, she is very upset about the hurricaine. She has to lash out at something."
My hope this morning is that my former reader will give me le bénéfice du doute. And that I may extend the same good faith--which brings me back to the cartoon depicting an atheist and a believer (both may have gotten a bad rap in that cartoon!). The two seem to have something in common after all. Both have to admit to not knowing what comes next, to whether or not one will take his or her next breath. And yet both, by their actions--whether by repairing a broken fountain or by parenting a child, demonstrate a belief in the unknown--or the as-yet-unreal tomorrow. A tomorrow which can neither be measured nor seen by the naked eye.
I leave you with a sunrise. Please leave everyone you come in contact with today with the same.
Amicalement,
Kristi
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Merci cher Kristi. Amidst the darkness, continue to look for and follow the light. Such challenging times seem to me to call for open hearts, dialogue and positive actions to create change. Bon courage a tous.
Posted by: Sandy | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 01:50 PM
I love you my precious Kristi...you are my sunrise. xoxo Mom
Posted by: Jules Greer | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 01:54 PM
Thank you so much for your thoughts this morning!
Posted by: Penelope Burr | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:01 PM
It was calming to read your post ce matin. Often it feels easier to lash out at something when there is such pain and heartache around the world. Your words were a comfort. Merci.
Posted by: Cicely Hand | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:09 PM
Peace to you, Kristin. I think you are right about anger and fright clouding our thoughts and reactions following upsetting events. Taking a step back before reacting is always a good thing.
Posted by: Alyssa Eppich | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:12 PM
Your words today helped. So easy to lash back at someone or something in these days. 🙏🏼
Posted by: Joy | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:19 PM
I drove home last evening from work, sobbing all the way while listening to a survivor's story from Las Vegas on the radio. We can pray for those who are suffering from these tragedies as well as for those lashing out. Peace.
Posted by: Marcia | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:21 PM
May peace prevail throughout the earth--and especially in our hearts.
Your anxiety and sadness reflect what so many of us are feeling, dear Kristi. Thank you for reminding each of us to do our part in working for peace, understanding and love.
Posted by: Kathi in Iowa | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:25 PM
It seems so strange when someone lashes out with anger or violence to the rest of us who try to live peaceably, sharing our struggles, joys and blessings. Jackie is right, the woman was hurting. It is very challenging for us to reach out with patience when we feel attacked. You are correct in reminding us all that none of us knows what tomorrow will bring. All the more reminder for us to spread love and compassion to all of those our lives reach and touch. Thank you for reaching out to us, in love, Kristi!! ❤️
Posted by: Gail L from AZ | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:26 PM
Christi,
Just wanted to thank you for giving all of us the benefit of the doubt! So many of our fellow Americans are confused and angry! Facebook has turned into an avenue for unleashing the anger of so many! To many of us faith in God and humanity as a whole has allowed us to carry on! I am often tempted to take a vacation from FB as there is so much ugliness expressed! Then I would have missed your blog! Have been following you for many years and enjoy your honesty and description of your daily lives in France! Hang on, things will get better after the dawn! (Lovely picture)!
Posted by: Barbara Pickens | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:35 PM
Dear Kristi (and fellow readers), I feel somewhat responsible about the fountain as it was my idea. (But I still very much want it to happen). I was aware at the time that, as my idea grew, so did the awful hurricane and its terrible damage and loss of lives. And now the horror of Las Vegas .... But when I take a few deep breaths, I tell myself that one can contribute to the fountains of this life AND send prayers and donations to those suffering from hurricanes and other horrors - and still find time to watch last night's stunning Yorkshire sunset and hug one's child and grandchild. Time and whatever money and resources we have, are ours, to use wisely and well. Our arms are wide and can embrace many people. As I approach my 8th decade, there is a quote that often rings in my ears - "What will remain of us is Love." Kristi, you encourage us all to be generous and loving. You are a sensitive soul and that is why the odd angry reader wounds you. Thicker skinned people do not feel the joys OR the pain. It is difficult if not impossible to "select" one's feelings. The pain is sometimes the price we pay for the joys. Warm hugs from a grey and windswept Yorkshire.
Posted by: Margaret | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:36 PM
Very well said, Kristi. God bless you for being articulate enough to say what needs to be said at a time like this. And for not responding in anger to online comments (read Brene Brown's book, Daring Greatly). Your post today was a great comfort.
Posted by: Drucye | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:37 PM
All excellent comments above! Jackie, a wise young lady, knows that people often do or say things they don't really mean. Many people lead exceedingly stressful lives. Let's try to make someone's life -- even a stranger's life -- less stressful by giving the benefit of a doubt.
Posted by: Cynthia Gillespie-Smith | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:48 PM
Drucye said it perfectly! And thank you for always being so caring and sensitive. Jackie is right, people lash out in fear and anger, usually to ones they love most, out of frustration and powerlessness. As you can see from all the positive posts, your efforts are very appreciated by all save one or two unhappy souls.
" Carpe Diem" is a saying that should be taken to heart. A small comfort to all the horror around us, are all the stories about heroes who are performing remarkable acts of kindness and bravery to save strangers. Let's focus on those wonderful people, who I'm positive outnumber the crazies!!
Posted by: Suzanne Codi | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 02:57 PM
This is such a profound and profoundly helpful post.
Atrocities, love, hatred, destructive hurricanes, beauty all jumbled together and clashing in this life, in these days.
I stopped in a park on my way to see my mother in the ICU unit and met a wonderful basset hound named Albert.
Albert had found a scent and would not turn to say hello or listen to his "owner". He was onto something that absorbed his attention completely. It was so magical. It carried me through the day. If happiness is paying attention, then Albert is a model of happiness.
I am rambling, but you are a blessing in my life. Thanks for untangling the threads of the news and our many reactions to it and each other.
Posted by: LeslieNYC | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:03 PM
Your faith is a powerful witness, Kristi.
Here's a quote from Norman Vincent Peale that I recently found helpful.
"Become a possibilitarian. No matter how dark things seem to be or actually are, raise your sights and see possibilities -- always see them, for they're always there."
Hopeful in Houston,
Carmen Clarke
Posted by: Carmen Clarke | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:15 PM
Kristy, I hope you won't delete my comment. People all across America must demand laws that keep automatic weapons out of the hands of civilians. Please read the statistics about gun violence here: https://everytownresearch.org/gun-violence-by-the-numbers/. Be part of the solution: demand your lawmakers do more than talk.
Posted by: LIbbie | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:19 PM
What would Jesus do? (WWJD?) Forgive! Good job, K.
Susie Q.
Posted by: Susie Q. Finley | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:20 PM
Kristi, Beautiful post. Love the way you speak so truthfully. I will share with you here a song that my daughter and son-in-law wrote. I actually visited Paris the day after the Bataclan tragedy and took the rough cut of the song and shared it with our hurting friends there. This week a minister in Las Vegas shared it with his community at a vigil that they held the day after the horrible tragedy. Our cities need healing. I am ever hopeful!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERVSrqcUOCo
Posted by: Jenine | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:22 PM
Sometimes in the midst of the chaos of a frightening storm, a little normalcy is needed. Bless you and your fountain, Kristi, for giving us an anchor.
Posted by: Nancy Stilwagen | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:26 PM
My mantra of late....... Respect, empathy, kindness and charity, these are the threads that hold us together.
Posted by: Deborah Auclair | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:36 PM
Thank you dear Kristi for helping to spread the love. xox
Posted by: Marsha | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:40 PM
Thank you Kristi for your wise and compassionate thoughts. So needed in these very difficult times.
And for the picture of the sunrise... Beauty helps give hope, so that we can keep finding the courage to do the right thing -- which is to be kind and compassionate in word and action. Thank you for "modeling" this. <3
Posted by: Gayle | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:41 PM
Very much enjoyed the song by your daughter and son-in-law. Beautiful voice and video.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:42 PM
Your words always touch my heart and remind me of the good that- though hidden at times - resides in the human spirit. Jackie was right about your readers anger and I believe that most of what people say in anger has nothing to do with the person hearing it but is an accumulation of stuff from their own past.
You have sent your love and beautiful spirit out into the world via this blog and you are loved and respected.
Posted by: Nancy | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:48 PM
To Barbara Pickens, French word A Day can be sent as an email. You can get off of Facebook and still enjoy Kristi's uplifting entries.
Posted by: Lauren Golden | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:49 PM
Oh, but you can receive FWAD blog right in your inbox (though you may never see this comment); no need for FB for that!
Posted by: Trina from St. Petersburg, FL USA | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:55 PM
Kristi: I'm sorry for that woman who is probably hurting, but there's no excuse for taking it out on you, a stranger, who is good enough to share your life, your trevails and triumphs, with us, wkly. You seem to be one of those lovely women who are naturally filled with grace. I admire that. I don't have that, even 'tho I have great faith. I just lost my house in St Thomas, something I worked and saved for my entire life. Never got to enjoy it or stay in it. Now, it's gone. Yes, I'm numb, but we had some insurance. The island is devastated. Most are w/out roofs, homes, running water, bathrms, food, medicine. St Thomas and St John have been forgotten. They're just now getting very small help. What is a house compared to these islanders' misery. We were told Tues. by the time we get a quote from anyone, much less find someone to rebuild a small home, the insur. $$ will be gone. So, we're looking at paying on a house 'til long after we're dead. It's really of no importance. We're alive, and we have 37 yrs of marriage and love for each other, plus a roof over our heads here in the US. I have no feelings for that woman who fussed at you. Another person with no "'couth." I apologize for her. I'm, quite frankly, tired of being PC, being respectful, and always being kind to those who are "hurting," to dolts and thugs. My heart is with the people & animals who aren't as lucky as the rest of us, the ones who have nothing left, the ones who were killed. Let's get better by stopping rudeness and meanness first. And I love fountains, always wanted one, and follow this ftn. of yours with great interest. You go, girl. Carry on. Much love.
Posted by: Robbie Lane Jackson | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:55 PM
Thank you for acknowledging the on-going world problems, while also offering some hope, and something to do about it. I have not appreciated my friends as much who pretend the world is fine; an acknowledgement of the crises, together with hope, is part of the solution.
Posted by: Nancy | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:56 PM
Wise words, well expressed.
Posted by: Kathy C | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 03:57 PM
Your words are so beautiful and Jackie's so wise. I ran into an old hurt today and wanted to lash out. I thought of this post. I thought also his bad behavior stemmed from pain and, though I didn't have to condone the behavior, I didn't have to allow my pain and anger to lead to meanness either; that can be a vicious circle and not helpful to anyone. If I say anything, perhaps I'll send the link to your blog.
Posted by: Trina from St. Petersburg, FL USA | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 04:06 PM
Robbie, Thank you for mentioning St. Thomas and St. John and the islanders. I am so sorry you lost your home, and appreciate your taking the time to send this encouragement.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 04:16 PM
Beautifully stated--thank you. We never know what the next moment will bring. For me, the one thing I pray for daily is to be an agent for good, what brings growth. Sometimes I do just that and sometimes I fail. I have learned to accept the failure knowing that the sun will arise tomorrow giving me another opportunity. Be well--you bring much joy and light to our needy world.
xoxo Mary
Posted by: mary tindukasiri | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 04:18 PM
Thank you for this beautifully expressed message of wisdom and love.
Posted by: Gail Hight | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 04:18 PM
Merci for you words and thoughts .
The answer I believe is that we all must be better people and be influences for good...while calling out evil when we see it. That, and fight against falling into despair.
Prayers 🙏🏻
Mercury One.org is a good charity. All proceeds go to aid not administrative costs.
🙏🏻 Commeseecommsaw
Posted by: [email protected] | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 04:19 PM
Beautiful dear Kristi and Jackie - such wisdom and grace from a young lady.
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins [and ugly words from hurting hearts] ~ 1 Peter 4:8 ♥
Posted by: Beth | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 04:27 PM
Thank you, Kristi, for your thoughtful and wise words as we all try to understand and cope with what is happening over the entire world.
Posted by: Cynthia Lewis | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 04:49 PM
I agree. Positive actions must fuel us every day. We can change the conversation.
Posted by: arlette jassel | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 04:52 PM
This comes to mind (about you) when I read your comments today. "...beauty is a light in the heart". (Kahlil Gibran). You shine.
Posted by: Patricia Ramos | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 04:57 PM
Sometimes we forget that regardless of our religion or politics, we all want the same basic things for ourselves, our families and our countries. Unfortunately, we can't seem to realize that love and understanding, not hate, is the only way to find those things.
Posted by: Cricket Hile | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 05:06 PM
Merci. The article was poignant. We were in Marseilles Sunday. It was our first time there and we had traveled by car. It is such a beautiful Mediterranean city with a lovely Vieux Port area. Praying for those suffering in each of these places around our tired, hurting world.
Posted by: [email protected] | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 05:11 PM
I too find it very sad when someone has to lash out in anger because they are upset, sad and don't know how to process the event. We are all in this together, whether we live next door or a country away. Being kind to each other, helping when needed and just being nice can go a long way. Remembering that we all have different views about different subjects and while maybe not agreeing at least respect.
Sending love!
Posted by: Karen Cafarella | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 05:24 PM
Oh, beautiful Kristi, your incredible words give understanding, peace and joy----LOVE!
Merci beaucoup,
Diane
Posted by: Diane Kish | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 05:47 PM
Dear Kristi,
I've not responded to you previously alhough I'm a regular reader. But this prompted me to stop lurking! I read an angry work email just before reading your blog post this morning. You're right. There is plenty of anger these days. It seems to be the emotion du jour. People are hurting. Violence is legitimized. Yet I think it's true that love is what we remember, or should remember (violence is like a meme while love is like a cherished poem). I'm going to pass a sunrise on today. Thanks.
Posted by: Dore | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 05:48 PM
As I read your latest post...I was disheartened to see how some people treat a woman who’s only goal in life is to spread her love of all things French; language, food, society, voter mari & les enfants.
This world has gone absolutely crazy but we need to hold on to our humanity, sanity, & love and begin to live in the moment & accept & love each other for who we are...
I’ve enjoyed your blog for many, MANY years...please keep going. You are loved by many, many people.
Posted by: Melissa Strait | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 06:42 PM
Beautifully said. Anger is so counter productive; to the person with anger and to those it is directed toward. Jackie was right in her reference.....and you never always know what the person standing next to you, or who comments on your blog is or has gone through. Even those who may be an atheist care about the goodness in people. They care about animals and what happens in the world. There is more love and compassion in the world than hate. Unfortunately the latter is what makes the news which is disappointing because we all need to feel and know that there is so much good out there. Yes, I will greet every sunrise with a full heart. Love is powerful.
Joie Lynn
Posted by: joie in Carmel | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 06:44 PM
Thank you for your words, Kristi. You are, indeed, a good soul and a positive light.
Linda
Posted by: Linda Eterman | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 07:58 PM
Thank you, Margaret. Just because we give a gift to Kristi, who has given us much pleasure through the years, does not mean we cannot give to hurricane relief. And if one does not believe in prayers, one can still send caring thoughts. Holly
Posted by: Holly Lake | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 07:58 PM
Kristi ~ Thank you for your sage words and thoughts*°•☆
This one really hurts-So much evil & pain! So Senseless and impossible to understand :(
Your daughter is right - people are lashing out with ANGER & their confusion
- pain /sorrow.
With this modern technology it is easier to release it by posting on are media devices•
Kristi~So appreciate your ability to think of others and with a more inclusive heart my friend ♡
Times are different than when we were young ⊙
CHĘĘRŚ to sunshine & fountains
HųGş °⊙¤☆♡
Posted by: David van der Wal | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 08:06 PM
Thank you very much Dave. So very touched to see this note from a longtime friend.
Thank you who are reading for your kind and thoughtful comments all for keeping this a peaceful zone, full of good will here and beyond.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 08:44 PM
Thank you for sharing this beautiful song. So uplifting and inspiring to see young people using their talents in this way.
Posted by: SusanIrene | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 08:53 PM
Kristi, I can't express the sorrow over all these events better than those above.
I can, however, offer some practical advice. I would advise everyone who wishes to donate to a remitted find to go to charity navigator.com. this organization rates charities based on what percentage of your donation actually gets to the recipients. Some charities spend too much of their funds on adminstration past and other operation costs. Sadly, the Red Cross is one of these, although their blood donor program is good.
The New York Times had an article listing specific good charities and exactly where there dollars were being used. I donated to AmericaCares listed in this article because it was benefiting Puerto Ricans specifically, and this us where I wanted my help to go for now. If anyone wants a link to the article, I'll try to find it when I get to better internet service than I have for today.
Posted by: Cyndy | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 09:20 PM
Today's reflection on 'bénéfice du doute' warms with magnanimity and wisdom word by word, Kristi, as you share the process of your tender heart. Thank you so much, and Jackie too. I am adding to my own prayers that distressed 'righteous' blamer who vented vs your natural attention to domestic beauty and peace, the fountain that is a positive symbol for us too. For sure, it's our daily doings that keep us grounded and present, able to weather profound social pain and to reach out personally from our inner faith, whatever it may be. (After all, even an atheist believes/has faith...that there is no divine force!)
The beautiful comments inspired by your blog today offer awesome ballast too; together we shall make our way. As the saying goes, "We are all just walking each other home."
Posted by: Kitty Wilson-Pote | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 09:24 PM
Merci Kristen,
Vos pensees sont exactemement dans l'esprit d'amitie. Beaucoup des benedictions!
Margaret
Posted by: Margaret | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 09:58 PM
Leslie, Courage to you and thoughts and prayers to your Mom, in ICU. I am glad you encountered Albert, experienced this happiness, and shared the cheerful scene with us.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 10:20 PM
ah-h a beautiful sunset...and soon a sunrise...the light continues to be there for all of us! You have a lovely and wise daughter; I love it when my children show depth and wisdom--I see it as living expresion of their hearts.
Posted by: Valerie Meluskey | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 10:28 PM
Our dear Kristi,
What a timely,needed and so much appreciated post today.
As always,you give us inspiration--even more gratefully received in these really troubling times.
Your words brought our attention to the absolute belief in knowing that,despite the evil existing,there is good,there are good people,kind souls.God hears our prayers for His light to prevail.
Sometimes the most challenging part is keeping open eyes to see.
Here in Vegas,we were moved to tears when we witnessed long lines waiting to donate blood;people--some obviously of limited means--reaching out with donations for those affected by this horrific set of events.One lady told me "Our blood is sll the same color."
Such kindness and mercy are a beacon of hope.
Blessings to you,dear Kristi,and your beautiful family.
Love
Natalia XO
Posted by: Natalia | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 10:37 PM
What a lovely thing to say Jules - and Kristin's thoughts are truly meant. She is very honest and sometimes too hard on herself, but it does make me more generous and considered in my judgements.
Posted by: Angela Sargent | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 10:38 PM
Kristi, your compassionate and honest words remind me of the quote by Mother Teresa, "If you want to change the world, go home and love your family." Amid the tragic events that have happened recently, I think that many people are feeling confused and angry, trying to find solutions and hitting a brick wall (and yes, also seeking someone to blame). What takes more work is seeking a way to create a community in dark times. Repairing a fountain is sometimes as much a work of love as is donating money to a family in need. Keep shining your bright light, Kristi. I don't know about that other reader, but your words always inspire me and remind me to focus my attention where it's most needed.
Posted by: Katia | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 10:42 PM
I just experienced two tragedies in four weeks. My father passed away in July and my mother lost her house and belongings during Harvey in Houston four weeks later. She is 85 and now living in a hotel. She looks forward to moving back home when everything is renovated, even though nothing will be as it once was. We learn and grow with our experiences in life and we never know what will come around the next corner. Be thankful for your family and friends and reach out to those that need you.
Posted by: Rosanna | Wednesday, October 04, 2017 at 11:03 PM
Kristi - beautiful words. Thank you.
Posted by: Tish | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 01:00 AM
Heart to Heart International http://www.hearttoheart.org/ Working with hurricane victims.
Medecins sans Frontiers - Doctors without Borders http://www.msf.org/
One of the few working with Rohingya in the Bangladesh camps.
Both organizations score 4/5 with Charity Navigator.
Posted by: Mary Rack | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 01:24 AM
After spending hours watching the news after the Las Vegas massacre, I felt so depressed and weepy! I carried on, however, went to the grocery store for food, but found myself drawn to every infant with its parents that I encountered. It soothed my sadness to focus on these beautiful, sweet, innocent beings with their glowing mother and father hovering protectively over them. I forgot my despair at "man's inhumanity to man" and, in my efforts to elicit a smile found myself bathed in the pure joy of these tiny beings. What a salve to a person wrapped up in the horrors of the day! The hope and optimism of the future lies in our children!
Posted by: Andrea Hughes | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 01:58 AM
Dear Kristi, You and your faith in God are beautiful blessings to all of us. Your Dear Jean-Marc and your Mama and Jackie and Max are blessings to us all, too. Such bountiful wisdom from your daughter!! Lots of Love, C-Marie
Posted by: C-Marie | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 02:03 AM
Thank you Kristi for a wonderful, thoughtful reminder to treat each other with respect. It often seems that to be 'tolerant', Christians must respect an atheist's view whilst many atheists do not seem to 'tolerate' Christians well, treating them as objects of ridicule. At times like this, we are reminded of our common human vulnerability. We can't stop some things happening, but in every moment we can choose how we treat others and atheist and Christian alike may have hope for humanity with each new sunrise.
Posted by: Deborah | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 02:18 AM
A beautiful heartfelt post one of your best written. These are strange times we live in and we know not what tomorrow will bring,,,sunrise and peace I pray as you do,, let us reach out to one another and keep the circle of faith, love, peace, and freedom alive in a circle around the earth,,,,
Posted by: joanna | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 02:54 AM
Lovely words. Thank you.
Posted by: Lorraine | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 08:15 AM
Merci, Kristi. I read all your posts, but don't often leave a comment. Your words today were calming and hopeful, even in the world as we know it today.
People call this world "the new normal". I am scared that this might be true.
YET, perhaps there are enough of us that share your philosophy, and can make it better, one by one by one. Thank you.
Lorraine
Posted by: Lorraine | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 09:08 AM
A little bit of faith and science together go a long,long way. Jules,please go back to writing in capital letters. I always look for your
postings. The relationship that you and Kristi have is precious. I am lucky,too, to share the same bond with my daughter. Love to you both.
Posted by: Patience in L.A. | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 11:31 AM
Bless you, Kristi
Posted by: Anne Kennedy | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 04:33 PM
Thank you for this moment of peace in a world full of turmoil! Very well said...
Posted by: Andrea Jane Robinson | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 04:45 PM
I am with Robbie Lane Jackson all the way and FIE on your reader who needs to vent her own hangups on YOU.
Rethink your comments, reader who criticizes Kristin for the content of her blog. IT'S HER BLOG. Not yours.
Posted by: Suzanne Dunaway | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 06:42 PM
Thanks, Kristi, for keeping things in perspective.
The truth is that in the midst of so many sad stories around the world, only faith and positive thinking can keep up going and give us any hope of making the world a better place. Here's to positive thoughts and faith - no matter what that involves for each and every one of us. And here's to sunrises.
Posted by: Kate Dickerson | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 07:00 PM
Very thoughtful words. Thank you.
Posted by: Christine Webb-Curtis | Thursday, October 05, 2017 at 11:08 PM
Kristi
I agree, you are hard on yourself at times but your words today are very soothing and heartfelt. If only we could all take a step back and quit reacting to everything someone says, I admit I have been there especially since this last election and being angry with everything . Things like this bring us back to reality and what is important. What anyone who has suffered with all of these tragedies would give to have that luxury and not be worried about shelter or food,water or having lost a loved one.
Posted by: Susan Souza | Friday, October 06, 2017 at 02:41 AM
About the Houston hurricane - sheesh. Don't worry about it. American media is even more Politically Correct -bound now than before. She thinks you live in America.
Posted by: Sargam | Friday, October 06, 2017 at 08:03 AM
Thanks for the beautiful idea of a sunrise. The picture was lovely and I love the idea of being or bringing a sunrise to those we encounter during the day. It's an image that resonates -- with light, new beginnings, continuing life, hope, and the blessed feeling of being at one with the Earth and all its life.
Posted by: DANA IVEY | Friday, October 06, 2017 at 08:32 AM
Kristi thank you for taking the time to respond to the critics in such a loving a way. You are so genuine and sensitive and the dialogue you create with your followers is one of kindness, gentleness and respect, and we all know the world needs a lot more of this. And thank you for the lovely sunrise. It is a new day, I will rejoice and be thankful!
Posted by: Dana | Friday, October 06, 2017 at 01:28 PM
Sometimes you are so profound. This time it is Jackie. No wonder this old person keeps reading your blog.
Posted by: Scott | Friday, October 06, 2017 at 02:46 PM
I bless you for exploring different opinions and outlooks. This has turned into such a crazy world, we don't know who to follow or try to understand. Yes, the sunrises are a wonderful tool to use. I wish all of us could set that up in our minds each and every morning.
Posted by: Ali | Saturday, October 07, 2017 at 08:23 AM
<3
Posted by: janet | Saturday, October 07, 2017 at 02:08 PM
so sorry ~ the above post was supposed to become a HEART. somehow, it didn't translate on this page.
Posted by: janet | Saturday, October 07, 2017 at 02:09 PM
It's a sideways heart and lovely Janet....
Posted by: Jan Hersh | Sunday, October 08, 2017 at 01:09 AM