Hudson, Florida

Well, here we are for the month of January...


This morning, we talk about how consequential (or inconsequential) our thoughts, actions, and words seem to be nowadays. We see a need for change almost everywhere we turn. Some of those needs are easy to spot. For example, the folks in this RV resort are recovering from the effects of two hurricanes that came ashore here last season. What can we say or do to help? Ask how they are doing. Appreciate their efforts. Listen. Pray. Lend a helping hand when we can. We are elderly, and we feel the limits of age, especially where physical strength and stamina are required. 

Other needs for change seem obvious, yet difficult to address. Division and violence are two examples. How may we go about peacemaking and reconciliation? Can we be good neighbors? Can we be faithful family members? Nothing we can imagine appears likely to have salutary and widespread effects. We remind ourselves of "the starfish we tossed back into the ocean." That one was helped. We simply want a more courteous, compassionate, forgiving, and loving world, and we choose to believe it's not too much to ask for the same.

Yesterday was Epiphany. The Greek Orthodox church blessed the waters of Tarpon Springs, Florida. A three-hour worship service was followed by a procession to Spring Branch. The archbishop poured holy water into the branch water, as manatees swam about.


Then teenaged boys jumped into Spring Branch in order to participate in a local tradition.


The archbishop threw a white cross into Spring Branch, and 60-70 teenaged boys dived to retrieve it. A young man of Greek descent named Lucas surfaced with the cross in his right hand. He climbed ashore, received a blessing, and was carried away on the shoulders of his mates.


We feel blessed by the fun customs of the local community. Several thousand souls came to observe and to participate in the tradition. Peace and love to all of them and to you, our readers.




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