A Space for John Lewis

John Lewis died.

My feelings about his death got stuck somewhere between my belly and my heart. Another fierce warrior…gone. Another gentle soul…gone.

I was unable to shake that immobility until I watched his funeral; specifically, when I heard President Obama speak.

And I could breathe again.

Obama’s words were a salve to my ravaged soul. And I leaned in, deeply. Each word resonating and inspiring. They washed over me, and I feasted on the inspiration.

Unstuck, the tears finally came, honoring a man of courage, courage and non-violence that is rarely seen today.

And Love!

And I found myself questioning my own courage. Could I walk towards the hate? Could I walk towards the evil? With my own walking stick of Love, could I do it?

And then I read Lewis’s essay in the New York Times. It was published on the day of his funeral. I urge you to read it if you haven’t (https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/30/opinion/john-lewis-civil-rights-america.html). In it he says, “Though I am gone, I urge you to answer the highest calling of your heart and stand up for what you truly believe.”

Do I have the courage to stretch into the space of my highest calling?

Do I?

“So I say to you,” he continues, “walk with the wind, brothers and sisters, and let the spirit of peace and the power of everlasting love be your guide.”

Today, a windstorm blew through Colorado, and I knew it was Mr. Lewis speaking to me, urging me on to something better and greater.

Do that next right thing. Be brave. Move. Walk. Grow. Love.

And stretched up high and reached for the sky and knew that all is well.