// On Bolivia & Roseburg
A few days ago I did what I like to call my “Packing Dress Rehearsal.” I threw a suitcase on my bed without much ceremony and began rummaging through my moving boxes for items like “long-sleeve layerable shirts,” “SPF chapstick," “fluffy green hat from Emma” and other articles I will need for the cold/hot flashes of Bolivia in October. Today I’m crossing items off my list. I’m pushing up my figurative sleeves and doing a crash-course study of video techniques. I’m waiting eagerly for some final packages. I’m writing checks to cover my October rent in Portland while I’m out of the country, and watching The West Wing and meeting with friends over bridges and meals and laughter.
And in the midst of my little world, I am holding Roseburg in the Light. I know that many of you are already doing the same, and it’s been simultaneously tearing and touching my heart to see so many posts on my feed about it. Thank you, friends.
I took this picture last week during Tillamook Outdoor School’s special candle ceremony. It is a beautiful ceremony that touches me every year. I watched 6th graders, counselors and staff light the candles in their cupcakes and sing together, eventually raising their candles up in solidarity, gently singing, “Love can build a bridge / Between your heart and mine / Love can build a bridge / Don’t you think it’s time? / Don’t you think it’s time?” With this recent tragedy, it is especially poignant and part of my prayers today.