My thoughts and attitudes are dogged by judgment and self-pity.

I am the righteous, assailed by foes. These brothers and sisters around me become a mob in my sight.

Let me love, Lord, even when assailed. Let me judge not, lest I be judged.

(Letter #1,969)

Is it enough that I avoid wrongdoing?

Is it enough that I try to root out selfish intent?

Is it enough that I draw near to you, Lord?

Is it enough that I act rightly with others?

Is it enough that I carry news of the peace you bring?

How wide, Lord, must the ripples spread?

Am I doing enough?

(Letter #1,968)

I walk out into a smoking wood. Charred branches, blackened ground. The grass has burnt away. Aftermath.

The fires were hot, and quick, and all-consuming. Last night was a fever.

Walking in silence along familiar paths. Heavy heart. How to repair? Where to start?

O Lord, where have you gone?

A bud, emerging from a dry branch already. Another farther on. Another still.

Life returns, Lord. You are in the new growth. But were you not also in the blasted ground? Will I find treasure there, if only I look?

Help me to see you, in tragedy and birth alike.

(Letter #1,967)

I shall end the day with nothing left, for you will replenish me in rest. I will give away all I have.

I am new this morning and will be so tomorrow. Let my steps therefore be quick.

(Letter #1,966)

I am here to help others find you. Let me not direct them wrongly.

Approach, and you will draw near to us. This is all we need know.

(Letter #1,965)

Where are you, Lord?

If I seek you on the mountain, you meet me on the pathway in the foothills. If I seek you in the forest, you are there at the trailhead. If I seek you in a teacher, you are in my school books.

You meet me always before my destination, before I have begun to look.

Open me to meeting you, Lord, earlier and earlier, in less and less expected places.

(Letter #1,964)

Days of work and discipline have left me empty. I have feared to ask for ought but strength to do your will.

If I am your child, shall I not also seek rest, comfort, love?

Lord, love me today.

(Letter #1,963)