I have been walking a few fine lines over the last few months.  It has left me weary both mentally and physically.  I have begun to realize that I need to take more time for reflection and more time to just be still.

A fine line that I walk is my unwavering support for my husband and son in their positions as Law Enforcement Officers and my support for the need of systematic changes across our country.  I fully support Law Enforcement.  There are some tactics and ideals within Law Enforcement that need to be updated and evolved to respect society’s growth and changes. I support systematic changes in the way people view one another, changes in the way wealth is distributed, changes in education of all children, and changes in our judicial systems.  We need to view all people as equals.  Society is a long way from this achievement.

I walk a fine line between some of my older siblings, friends and family, and my own view of how I believe the country should be governed.  I believe that all people should be represented.  Term limits for all political offices.  Healthcare is a basic right, just like food, clothing, and shelter.  All working people should be paid a livable wage.  Fiscal responsibility should be taught in schools starting in kindergarten.  There are many more differences, but they are too many to list.  Many of my beloved family and friends have opposing views on these issues.  I generally do not engage in these conversations to keep peace.

I walk a fine line between some of my friends and family and their beliefs surrounding the current pandemic.  The pandemic is deadly, has long term effects and is out of control.  We need to do everything possible to stem the tide of this disease.  The mixed ideals and beliefs have had serious consequences.  I am very cautious and believe we all shall be to end the pandemic. 

I walk a fine line between staying positive and becoming stuck in the doldrums of the surrounding negativity.  I am at times telling myself to breathe and slow down when the “what if’s” and negativity creep into my thoughts.  I find myself watching the news networks periodically throughout the day.  I must force myself to turn off the television or tune to something else.  It has helped that the Twins are playing again to distract myself.  GO TWINS!!!

There have been positives that have come out of all this walking of fine lines.  I try to stay busy with projects around the house. (Which may be a negative to my husband…) I work with the great staff and volunteer on parking lot Sundays at Grace Lutheran.  I spend time with my family camping and crafting.  I make more of an effort to reach out to family and friends.  I spend time writing, especially devotionals like this. I also spend time every evening before bed with the Bible.  I find this to be the most comforting of all as it combines quiet, writing, reading and reflection.  One of my favorite verses at the moment: “When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought me joy” Psalm 94:19

I hope and pray that if you, like me, are walking fine lines right now this will bring you some peace.

Blessings,

Marie Kolar