We've heard a lot of words in the past 36 hours or so. Many, many words. Let's pause for a few minutes with fewer words.
Welcome to Brothers and Sisters, the weekly meetup for prayer* and community at Daily Kos. We put an asterisk on pray* to acknowledge that not everyone uses conventional religious language, but may want to share joys and concerns, or simply take solace in a meditative atmosphere. Anyone who comes in the spirit of mutual respect, warmth and healing is welcome.
(h/t musing85 for the beautiful meditative chant)
I first saw the word here, on a diary at the top of the recent list that hadn’t hit the Rec List yet. US Rep Gabriella Giffords was shot in Tuscon. As I write this draft, 100% of the Rec List diaries are about yesterday's tragedy, as are most of the Recent Diaries. News websites – the same thing. If you’re looking for many, many words about what happened in Tuscon yesterday and a place to debate the shooting and what we do or don't know about why it happened, the wide world of the Internet is out there for you.
Tonight, I offer this space as one of peace, prayer*, and compassion. We hold in the light those whose lives were lost, we send our collective thoughts and prayers to those who remain hospitalized, and in here, we especially greet one another with kindness this evening. If you’d like to argue about the cause of what transpired in Tuscon or speculate about the broader implications for US politics, I promise you that there’s at least a half-dozen other diaries doing just that at this very moment, and suggest that for tonight, any debates or differences be taken to one of them.
Tonight, let us come together simply to listen to one another. If there’s music you’re moved to share, include it in a comment. If you would like to post your thoughts, hopes, fears, and wishes, do that, too. If you disagree with something another commenter has posted, please consider refraining from comment here – drop mojo or not as you see fit, but listen. See the humanity in one another, even in those with whom you may disagree.
Tonight, especially for everyone preparing to return to work or school tomorrow, the adjustment back to “normal” may feel more difficult than usual. In times such as these, otherwise manageable concerns may seem overwhelming. As always, brothers & sisters are here to receive what you choose to share.
In my tradition, we say “Peace be with you” – and from me, tonight, I welcome you all and wish you comfort and solace.