I took this picture of this cow last week on our Sunday walk.
Stuck in the Muck
I was a bit concerned, actually, not knowing much about cows, for he… or she, seemed quite stuck and was drinking the muddy water.
When we returned that way, she was still there, but faced in the opposite direction so my husband reassured me she was probably just fine.
It made me think though, about feeling stuck. About wanting out of the mire, the mess of 2020 in so many ways. Every day the news is dire, and the muck seems deeper. No wonder so many are feeling despondent and depressed.
Two prayers/readings have been my companion and comfort when I feel stuck.
From the writings of Frances de Sales:
“Do not look with fear on the changes and chances of this life; rather look to them with full faith that as they arise, God – whose you are – will deliver you out of them.
He has kept you hitherto. Do not but hold fast to His dear hand, and He will lead you safely through all things; and when you cannot stand, He will bear you in His arms.
Do not anticipate what will happen tomorrow. The same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day.
Either He will shield you from suffering or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it.
Be at peace, then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.”
And a beautiful prayer from Teresa of Avila:
Let nothing disturb you,
Let nothing frighten you,
All things are passing away:
God never changes.
Patience obtains all things
Whoever has God lacks nothing;
God alone is enough.
These Prayers and readings are a good companion and encouragement. If you feel stuck . . . or not, I hope they encourage you today
