Journal of Sacred Work

Our biggest fear is that the aftermath could be more lethal than the storm itself.  – Caryl Stern, U.N. Children Relief – about the Myanmar (Burma) cyclone

   So many of us think that Love is obvious. So many imagine that we all agree about the need for Love and no one will get in the way of its expression. Military leaders in the country of Myanmar (aka Burma) demonstrate otherwise. They believe power and control are far more important than Love. With tens of thousands already killed by the cyclone of nature, the arrogant generals that run the country are killing more by blocking the delivery of vital food and medicines. Control is more important to them than the alleviation of suffering…

   The story in China (left) is different and the same. As the most devastating earthquake of this century continues to steal lives, the Chinese government seems to be rushing to help. Simultaneously, this same government continues to oppress and sometimes torture monks in the peaceful country of Tibet.
   In the 1960s and 70s, as the need for seat belts and car safety became obvious to everyone, Ralph Nader found himself fighting a remarkably lonely battle against big auto companies. Today, our government continues to obstruct efforts to protect our environment.
   And in hospital after hospital and charity after charity, numerous CEOs continue to pay more attention to bottom line dollars and organizational control than they do to the needs of first line employees.

  In every instance, the instructions of Love are clear: Let supplies come into Myanmar; stop punishing and torturing the gentle monks of Tibet; place car safety ahead of corporate profits; protect our environment.
   A New York Times photo from China (left) symbolizes a world dilemma. When the forces of nature come crashing down on us, some reach out to help. Others ignore the need or actually block help.
   More often than not, Love is a foreign presence in the halls of leadership.
   As for our places of caregiving, will America’s healthcare leaders ever understand that the most important thing they can do is to take care of the people who take care of people?
   All of this is obvious. Or is it? Is Love, in fact, quite uncommon?
   What do you think?

-Erie Chapman