“No matter what anyone says or does, my task is to be good.” —Marcus Aurelius
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It’s hard to stay steady when the world feels chaotic, isn’t it? The headlines are relentless, conversations feel tense, and bad news can make it seem like everything is spinning out of control. In moments like these, it’s easy to lose our calm or feel swept away by worry. This is exactly when we’re called to hold on to what truly matters—our goodness, our faith, and our sense of peace.
Philosopher Marcus Aurelius said, “No matter what anyone says or does, my task is to be good.” This isn’t about ignoring the chaos or disengaging from the world—it’s about grounding ourselves so we can respond with love and purpose. Like a deeply rooted tree that withstands the fiercest storm, our strength comes from staying anchored in what is true and eternal. Mystic St. Teresa of Avila offers wisdom for such times: “Let nothing disturb you. Let nothing frighten you. All things are passing; God never changes. Patience obtains all things.”
When frustration arises—a sharp word from a loved one, a stressful situation, or the disheartening news of the day—this is our chance to pause, breathe, and choose how we will respond. Marcus Aurelius taught, “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.” What if the very things that frustrate us could be seen as opportunities to practice patience, kindness, and courage? Every storm we face is a chance to deepen our compassion and refine our values.
St. Francis of Assisi prayed, “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” In these uncertain times, we are called to be just that—steady, anchored in love, and faithful to the goodness within us.
We are in this together,
Rev. Cameron Trimble
Reflection Questions
How can I respond to life’s frustrations in a way that reflects my deepest values?
What practices help me stay rooted in love, compassion, and clarity when the world feels overwhelming?
A Prayer for the Day
A Prayer for Steadiness in Chaos
God of Peace,
When the storms of life rage around me, anchor me in Your love.
Help me to hold steady, to respond with kindness,
And to be a source of peace in a world that feels chaotic.
Strengthen me to face frustrations with patience,
To see challenges as opportunities to grow in faith,
And to reflect Your light in all I do.
Amen.
Spiritual Practice
Rooted in Peace
When you feel overwhelmed or frustrated, take a moment to pause. Pause and check in with your body. Repeat silently, “The winds may howl, but I will not be swept away. I am anchored in love.”
As you go through your day, look for opportunities to practice this steadiness. Whether it’s responding to an unkind word, navigating a stressful situation, or simply listening deeply to someone, let each moment be a chance to stay rooted in peace.
At the end of the day, reflect on how you were able to stay steady and where you might grow further. Let this practice remind you of the strength that comes from being anchored in what truly matters.
Upcoming Events That Might Be of Interest…
November 21, 12-1pm ET - Advent After the Election - What does it mean to step into the season of Advent on this side of the 2024 Presidential election? If you are a pastor, how do you intentionally engage this impending season with an awareness of the cultural and political landscape we find ourselves in? Register for the conversation here.
November 21 - 7-9:00pm ET - What Buddhism and Christianity Can Teach Us About Gratitude: A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Isa Gucciardi and Rev. Cameron Trimble. Find out more here.
July 20-25, 2025 - The Art of Wilding: A 5-Day Expedition in Wyoming for Women Leaders. Click here to learn more.