Tribute...

 by Michelene Bell

As many of you are aware, there was no October issue. It was a difficult decision not to put out a paper, especially considering the events of September 11th.

It's ironic that on that fateful day I found myself being admitted to the hospital where I would later undergo surgery. It was during my stay, and with little to do, that I found myself like the rest of the nation, mesmerized by the acts of lunacy and destruction taking place. There was no emotion except maybe shock and numbness. I didn't understand how anyone could have such a high disregard for human life. Were these souls without consciousness, compassion or any sense of morals? Were these acts being carried out from men fighting a holy war?

There are many speculations running rampant as to why and we may never know the real reason for some time to come.

What I do sense and know is that on September 11th there was a wake-up call to you and I and to the world as a whole. Our lives, the world and the way we interact with society takes on new meaning.

In the months and years to come, I believe there will be tremendous growth on a global scale. Also, from the rubble and heartache of one nation's tragedy the world is witnessing unification of a people forged with a determination to bring balance and peace back into their lives and that of their country.

It will soon be two months since that momentous day and still people are abuzz with what to do. Even I find time for the latest updates and yet I remain unsure as to what would be the best action taken. I remember when it first happened and they suspected Osama bin Laden. My suggestion was to put him in an iron mask (like the movie, the Man in the Iron Mask) and place him in a deep, dark dungeon for life. Of course it was only a passing thought as I could see a myriad of scenarios which would result in more terrorism.

Should we destroy the terrorists? Many would give a resounding "Yes" and yet we would not wipe out such groups. There will always be someone willing to give their life for a "just" cause.

In many of the e-mails I received there was, of course, a split between those factions who walked the line of "an eye for an eye" and those who felt a more peaceful solution must be found. One person pointed out that if we took the philosophy of an "eye for an eye" who would be left standing on the battlefield and would justice be served? Interesting thoughts, interesting questions.

September 11, 2001 did more than shock a nation. It helped to bridge a people of multicultural differences, it brought about a renewal of faith in God, and country, and it gave us heroes.

Through it all we can be proud of our country and the people who inhabit her. We have withstood the test, we have shown the world our willingness to help one another-even our neighbors in far off countries.
We are a people of strength, resolve and courage. Allow that courage, that resolve and strength to bring us to our destiny.

Let our lives not be ruled by fear but rather by love and compassion.

When we contemplate the demise of those who would perpetrate such heinous acts upon humanity we are creating our own destruction.

Justice is important and it is the intent behind the action which will either bring more chaos and devastation or initiate the steps towards world peace.

I believe that peace is possible; however, we must keep our egos out of the process. So often I have been asked "what do we do?" and my answer has remained the same. Look at your own little piece of the world. Listen to Spirit, listen to your inner guidance and strive to keep balance in the moment for that is all we have. As we do our part, keeping the world and her caretakers in the light, praying, meditating and being positive (despite all the media hype) and trusting in Divine intervention we will make it. Leaping into that void of the unknown will catapult us into our destination - that of world peace and a world based on love, rather than fear.

No, our lives will never be the same - and isn't that a magnificent, intoxicating thought!

Living our lives, in love and joy is indeed a tribute to the Universal Source of all things. And in these trying times, may we forever remember to be grateful for all our loved ones and all our acquaintances we have yet to meet.

The world is not coming to an end but is rebirthing into a new and spectacular arena of possibilities. See the world, visualize her coming into a reality of peace.

And so in closing, I offer this issue, as a tribute to our nation's heroes. Realize that a hero lies within you and you do make a difference.

In Love and Light,

Michelene

P.S. It is my hope that the articles and uplifting quips and thoughts give you some peace of mind and direction. We are truly in this together and my prayer is that the way be made clear to all who have the courage to move into their own destiny. Each day find something for which to be grateful and soon your day will be filled with miracles.

In loving tribute to you all…thank you for your heroism and your support.

Michelene K. Bell

A Metaphysical, Spiritual, Holistic Publication   |   In Light Times   |   November, 2001