I have been thinking of community a great deal lately, about the vital need for mutual support and understanding during these troubled times. I wrote a poem for Marianne a number of years ago expressing my yearning for a Community of Life.
Spiritual friendship, deep sharing
Knowing we are not alone on the journey
Our separate egos are but an illusion
I am also an individual, having my own beliefs and perspectives. For many years i resonated to a song from a group I learned of through Marianne, Fleetwood Mac. However, it was just the main refrain “Go your own way” that I heard, passing by “you can call it another lonely day”. Now, facing considerable feelings of loneliness, I hear the whole song.
I do not want to keep on calling it another lonely day. I seek a group — a “house” — that both has a vision and is truly welcoming.
Welcome Our house is open to all We have many rooms We yearn to share our vision Of many paths leading to God Of all rivers coming at last To the Great Sea. But our house is open to you Even if you do not share that vision Perhaps there is a truth that guides you That you feel is the only truth But you love us as people And hope we will find our way You are welcome in our house. Or perhaps you do not believe in God Or you have questions and doubts You are working for the good of human beings You are welcome in our house. Or maybe the “good of all” Is to you an empty phrase The pathetic utterance of the weak For you, life belongs to the strong I do not think you want a room in our house But if a time comes When you feel lonely or afraid You are welcome in our house. Our blessings go to you all Be welcome in our house.