It was one of those days, one of those unusual days. It was quiet. There were few interruptions. Volunteers came and went.  As is often the case when things become quiet and still, I breathe a deep sigh and relax. My focus can turn to an inward or an outward reflection.  Sometimes I can’t distinguish between the two.

My inner thoughts and emotions are full of turmoil as I think of the Azer children, Sharvahn, Rojevahn, Dersim, and Meitan who were abducted in August 2015 and taken to Iraqi Kurdistan. They are in a foreign culture and place torn by war, violence, and terror. In this season of Easter, I am haunted by one of the posts by the children’s mother, Alison. There is a picture of three of the children taken last Easter. They are all smiling and holding their Easter baskets filled with Easter treasures.  Then, there is a picture of four Easter baskets – a blue one, a pink one, a green one, and an orange one – all empty.

Again, I sigh and breathe deeply to fill empty spaces with breath, wind, spirit. It seems as if it’s only wind; life giving oxygen so necessary, and yet, only wind. Once more I inhale and exhale hoping that with the breath out I can let go of the anger, the pain, and the emptiness inside of me.  It doesn’t work – not at all.

Now, this is not about me. It is about the Azer children, their mother Alison, and their Aunt Liz, Uncle Jan and so many more. It’s about all of us who have heard the story and experience days with no news and with what seems to be diminishing hope. It is about all the solidarity, support, and effort that is being conducted to find these children and bring them home. Thanks to each and every one for wrist bracelets, yellow candles, letters, fundraisers, prayers, and all that is being done.

Alison tweeted this message – “Sharvahn, Rojevahn, Dersim and Meitan – your Mom loves you so much. She wishes/prays under the same moon you sleep under.” Alison, many of us wish and pray under that same moon. Peace to your children and peace to you. Doesn’t really sound like much to say, but it feels better than saying nothing and praying and wishing are better than doing nothing.

I do want to call your attention to an event happening on May 10.

Tickets are available at www.findazerkidsnow.eventbrite.com  Click on the picture for an enlargement. My ticket is purchased. Hope to see many of you there!