In the Tension of Hope and Heartache

Today has been a bittersweet day. Of all of the days of the year that I really want to ride my bike, World AIDS Day, I'm still suffering from the crazy sickness that has nailed me to the bed and slowed me down all week. Carol is struggling with her mother's health and when I asked what I can do to help her the most, she said "just get well - I need you." I've never been one that liked to sit on the sidelines, helpless to play - but today I've had to do that very thing. It really stinks. I've spent time today quietly in bed or in my favorite chair reading the various Facebook posts about World AIDS Day, begging for funding support for my rides, and reading more of "And the Band Played On: Politics, People and the AIDS Epidemic". The pain of loss is so deep for so many and I realize how helpless I feel.

One friend posted a litany from the Phillips Theological Seminary about World AIDS Day. To share a bit of these words: "We gather to honor and remember. We look to history for a legacy of hope. We do not enter into this work alone. Many have come before us. We rely on them to guide our spirits and actions, our words and tasks, as we live in the tension of hope and heartache." I was struck by the words "in the tension of hope and heartache" because that's where I find myself today. If you find yourself in a similar space, perhaps the following litany end will help you as well. It is so important that, on this day, we say their names. They deserve that from us - just a pause, a reflection of their special character, and how we have been changed for good because of each one.

Again from Phillips Theological Seminary: "We remember men, women and children everywhere who are victims of discrimination because of AIDS; those who have fought for justice, equality, and dignity; and all who have gone before us into the everlasting embrace of God. We honor courageous women and men who continue to fight the good fight against AIDS; speak now, name them, proclaim with voice and spirit, others who may not be among us. Their voices have moved us forward.

[[Naming of names]] With inspired hearts, we seek to be…

People who learn from legacy, who inherit strength and bestow it upon others, and live lives of persevering hope. Amen.

To the World, I say on this day: Get well soon.

http://ptstulsa.edu/PrayersandMore?nid=101505