Seeing the Good Right Now
by Rev. Kamatara Johnson
I’ve been thinking this last week about the phrase, “This is as good as it gets,” and how that means the opposite of what those words actually mean. They typically indicate a sense of resignation and lack, like we should appreciate the very little we have because there is no more. What if we took those words and really meant them and meant them even right now? This IS as good as it gets. It IS good right now, to see the bounty in all our messy goodness.
I know that when I allow myself to experience all the good that is present in this moment, then it literally is as good as it gets. I get to experience all the good that is in that moment. That comes from a place of abundance and Divine recognition. That’s what I want to experience. And I don’t want to wait “until this all over” to experience this beauty. When will it all be over? There’s no distinct line in the sand. Why give up this time that is right now that could be this beautiful, rich experience? I can see the good in this right now. I can see the God in us right now.
I can know joy and abundance even in this time that may feel barren and desolate. Even the cactus in the desert has vibrant flowers and provides shelter and fluids to the hearty creatures nearby. I am hearty too. I connect with Divine bounty and goodness right now in all the ways it shows up and replenishes my soul. The kindness and generosity of neighbors taking care of neighbors is as good as it gets. The sharing of resources, food, and supplies so everyone has enough is as good as it gets. The deepened longing to connect with each other and finding creative ways to do so is as good as it gets. The soul searching, grieving, shedding of skins that is happening right now is as good as it gets. The reconnection with nature and slowing down to drink it all in and nurture our gardens and take care of our homes is all as good as it gets.
So, I welcome the recognition of this good and more good into my life and the lives of all those reading this prayer. We are not waiting anymore. Good is in the now–God is in the now. I am in the now and truly blessed for it. With a wave of gratitude, I let this prayer go, knowing I am already experiencing this truth. And so it is.