Tuesday Ramble

Tolerance is understanding.  It is open to new light.Those who are tolerant are always eager to explore viewpoints other than their own.

Wilferd A. Peterson

 (The most recent view of my altar) 

As Easter quickly approaches I am reminded of my early days of blogging.  I came here believing that as long as I didn't hurt or spam anyone else, I would be left alone. I trusted everyone, and there was no need for comment moderation because all comments, members or not, were warm, friendly, and even comforting at times.  That is, until...

It was the week before Easter, and I'd posted a fond remembrance of Easter  past.  I wrote about how my mom would dress me from head to toe in a brand new Easter outfit and how much I had loved parading around and posing for photos. It was such a special time for me for holidays were the only times we came together as a family.  It was the only time we seemed normal.

I also wrote about the changes I see in the world today, and how, when I looked out my window, I saw people going to Easter services in jeans.  I remarked that I felt it was a shame that little girls were no longer able to experience that joy that I had once felt.  It was a totally harmless post, and I trusted that my blog was a safe place, so you can imagine the chagrin I felt when I discovered a comment from some stranger who chided me for being so materialistic and saying that she would  pray for me because I didn't have my  priorities straight. "Church is not for socialization and looking at others pretty clothes, and I ought to be ashamed of myself". That was the day I learned a lesson. That was the day I began moderating all of my blogs.

Yesterday was wonderful. Absolutely nothing to do.  The weather was bad, but I didn't have to go out in it. The snow fell but did not stick, and at times became an icy mix that created quite a racket when it hit my air conditioner. I was glad that I could sit and watch from my window. I was also aware that next year I will no longer have to make that decision to stay home or go to work in the bad weather.  Every day will be mine to do as I choose. Never really looked at retirement like that...until now.

I finished my book and began another one..."Magickal Judaism: Connecting Pagan And Jewish Practice" by Jennifer Hunter. This is a subject I have been interested in for many years, ever I read a biographical story of a Jewish family in Manhattan who practiced a pre-monotheistic Hebrew religion and brought Pagan practices into modern Judaism.  It opened my eyes to the beauty of the Jewish religion. Sadly, many, many years have passed since I read that book, and I have not only lost it, but can no longer remember the name of it.

Well, wish I could spend some more time, but I have to jump in the shower now.  It's a back to work day for me.  Hope your Tuesday brings you much happiness and peace.