I took a one month respite from blogging and social media to dig deep into a fictional writing project and when I returned to the real world…
- terrorists had bombed Paris, the city of love
- Syrian refugees were being turned away like Mary and Joseph
- more incidents of gun violence in several American cities
- etc., etc., etc.
The news of the day made me wish for the safety of the fictional world I had just left. But I, like the rest of humanity, am made of stronger stuff and so I, like the rest of humanity, shook off the shock, said a prayer, and resolved to carve a better way for all.
Soon after making this resolution, I traveled to Oklahoma City and with extra time on hand, stopped at the bomb site there (see photos below). In April 1995, a domestic terrorist drove a vehicle weighed down with a bomb into the federal building. A day care was on the first floor of that building and at final count, 168 men, women and babies perished.
I stood on that precious ground, thinking about that day and current news, and the following words came to mind.
“Another city ripped apart by bombs
Another mess of broken hearts and angry souls
Vengeance, retaliation, murder in return
I am familiar with the cry, circa 1960s
But, don’t
Vengeance is mine, says the Lord
His words drowned out by fear, hatred, pain
As people mobilize guns, drones and WMDs
Killing with kindness is out
God is love is out
God is my refuge is out
God is my strength is out
Leaving no room for…God.”
It is human nature to want to hurt when hurting, to obtain justice on our own, to give as we got. As an African-American living in a country that doesn’t count us all equal, I understand this nature. Which is why at this holiday time, during these difficult days of strife, it is important to focus on God and the promises of old.
God is my comforter. God is my very present help. God loves me, you, the whole world. God is God, all by him/her/itself. God is…
Ann Fields 
This is such a touching post, Ann. Your photos and words are very powerful. It must have been an incredible emotional experience visiting the bomb site.
Thanks, Carol. It was! The visit brought back so many memories of 9/11, the 16th Street church bombing in Alabama where four little black girls perished, even the church bombing in my hometown in Oklahoma. I understand the emotions the citizens of Paris are processing. It’s tough. My prayers are with them and the entire world.
The world has gone mad sure enough. What a great post though xxxxxxx
Mad, indeed! It’s enough to wish for a hamster-like existence (hee-hee).
Simple beautiful and painfully truthful but isn’t it wonderful that God is….. Thanks Ann!
Thanks, Shamira, I appreciate the comments, and yes, it’s a true blessing that God is bigger than us. Take care and be safe
Good stuff. So many feel the same way and fight to keep God in our focus. Thank you.
My pleasure, Danette, and here’s hoping the love and goodwill exhibited during the season follows you throughout the new year and beyond.