Friends,

There is something about proximity that enhances empathy. Maybe we should strive to have our feelings act in more equitable ways, and though we may try to achieve this, I think we are simply made to be more in tune to the joys and struggles of those nearby. Whether this is good or bad, it is what it is.

As I write this on Thursday morning, the whole town seems to be in a state of mourning. Everyone still must go about their day, caring for sick children, or dropping them off at school. I had lab work done at the doctor’s office at 9:15 then broke my fast with avocado toast at Bread and Water. The cashier remembered my name even though I did not order my typical breakfast, which I find to be particularly thoughtful of her. Despite these heaps of normal things, everyone seems to be affected by the plane crash near DCA last night. People are a bit hushed and respectful as if the bereaved could be in the next room. There is no news if the victims lived in our area, but the very fact that it happened near us means that we must mourn for that horrible loss of life and pray for all of those affected.

While doing my mundane ritual of packing my son’s lunch this morning, I found myself saying a litany of prayers while opening on closing cabinet and refrigerator doors and wiping off counters. I could not help but imagine myself on the plane experiencing what they experienced, and my prayers turned to them. I cannot imagine being a loved one knowing my family was on a flight and frantically searching to find the flight number. If it was that flight, then what’s next? I would not have known where to go and what to do. Then my prayers were with them, while I sought after snacks. Then my mind went to those who are doing the recovery efforts and how that task is an impossibly hard thing. The conditions sounded terrible, the task is innately difficult, and it is something that leaves a mark on one’s soul. In my search for children’s coats and shoes my prayers went to them.

So far, I do not know of any direct connections our community has with the victims, but it happened so close to us, I feel the need to pray. I feel affected just by my nearness to the events that took place, and called to be someone who cares, as I think many felt today.

I am relieved that tonight (Thursday), we will have time for our prayers to manifest outside of our mundane routines. We must continue to go about the business of life, but we can collectively carve out a time to pray for the souls of the departed, for those who mourn, and for those whose work is still ongoing. If you were not able to join us for the service and feel the need to pray, it was live-streamed and is still on our YouTube page. As always, I encourage you to bring your prayers on Sunday, and I am available if you would ever like to pray in private.

Godspeed my friends, and know I am thankful for your faithfulness.

Blessings,

Nick