Some Thoughts we Cherish

Culture shock

But transition from one system to another system is not a switch that we flip. It is a process that we go through.  That process includes the stress of adjusting from the way you have always done it to the way it is now done.  It includes wrestling with knowing, without a doubt, 
that your way is better . . .
and then thinking that it probably is . . .  
and then wondering if it might be . . . 
and then acknowledging there may be two good ways . . . 
and then (sometimes) recognizing the new way is better.  
For some people the process is harder, deeper, darker, more dysfunctional.  Some people thrive on the instability.  It’s not the same (by any means) for everyone, but no one gets immunity. – source unknown



Prayer for peace

Our God,
   We call you Light of the world, but today we feel the weight of night.
   We call you Wisdom, but today we have so many unanswered questions.
   We call you Prince of Peace, but today we feel surrounded by violence.
   We call on you in our fear, our disbelief, our sadness, and our helplessness.
Hear our cries.
   Hold us as we remember the sounds, images, and experiences of Wednesday.
   Hold the families of all those killed and injured in our capital city.
   Hold families around the world who experience violence and instability.
Remind us to hold each other as we gather in our homes, schools and workplaces in the         coming days.
May we seek your wisdom as we try to respond to the questions of our children, which         echo our own questions.  Why do people kill each other?
We are people shaped by your story of peace. May our responses to the events in our           capital city be formed and informed by this identity. 
May we seek your light as we find our way through the dark.
In your mercy, Lord, hear our prayers.
(A Prayer from Ottawa Mennonite Church)