Nourish your soul in the midst of barbarity

"But he (Jesus) answered, "It is written, 'One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Matthew 4:4

     What nourishes your soul? Now, perhaps more than any other time in your life, is the time to nourish your soul at every possible opportunity. Practice the sacred arts of renewing yourself daily.

     Meditate on inspiring words. Sing. Dance and prance by yourself or with someone you enjoy being with. Linger and enjoy beautiful sunsets and sunrises. Snuggle with someone you care about. Laugh. Draw. Compose something. Whenever and wherever possible, encourage your creatively. Most of all love deeply, for love will always nourish the human spirit and sustain you through all circumstances.

     I recently came across a remarkable story titled, "Dignity amid barbarity." The article described a Holocaust art exhibit inspired by artists, composers and poets from the Auschwitz death camp. In the midst of barbarity, prisoners created art with whatever was available, thus capturing the atrocities and realities of the camp. (The exhibit website: http://lastexpression.northwestern.edu).

     Art empowered these artists to reassert their identity in an environment dedicated to denying it. In exercising their personal creativity, many Auschwitz prisoners experienced a meaningful sense of dignity, purpose and the will to survive another day. Decades later, their art continues to teach the world valuable lessons from history.

     While nourishing your precious soul, prayerfully consider creating your own art with the ongoing events and experiences in Zimbabwe. Photography is a powerful art form. Take many photos. Date and name them. If possible, share them online with international viewers. International pressures might stop some of the senseless acts of violence and brutality daily occurring within your country.

     Consider the arts of writing and drawing in a personal journal, about day to day experiences in Zimbabwe, focusing on what inspires you to live another day. Write down your dreams and hopes, poems and prayers. Jot down words, images, memories, and your stories. Writing is often cathartic and healing. There is a saying among writers that the palest ink is better than the best-intentioned memory. Someday you may write a book. If so, let me be the first to request an autographed copy.

     Express yourself through the arts and your sacred stories. In doing so, you will be empowered, energized and better equipped for the days ahead. Present and future generations will learn from you through your art, music, drama, and poetry and prose. By doing these things, your own soul will be nourished and uplifted, and so will many others.

     Prayer: God, nourish and empower Zimbabwe's artists and musicians, poets and sages, as they create meaningful art that will bring dignity amid the barbarity. Amen.

Written by Rev. Dr. Sandy Bochonok
http://soulfoodministry.org
September 30, 2002
Permission is given to freely distribute this reflection throughout Zimbabwe.