In the Twilight Zone?

I am now in my third day of trying to get my telephone number ported onto a new telephone. I have been told before that I have one of those anti-technology auras that makes things mess up. I’m beginning to believe it as I am now talking to higher and higher tiers of people in the company and we’re still at a loss. I’ll admit I have been through so many different emotions through all of this. I started out with understanding and recognition that the first person was probably new at her job. From there, I have gone through frustration, disbelief, anger, exhaustion. I told the lady that I’m on the phone with now that I walked into a Verizon store at 10:15 on Thursday morning and I apparently walked into the Twilight Zone. I wasn’t kidding.

I have a new appreciation of what is like to be oppressed or judged based upon your race, gender, country of origin, or any other exterior attribute. I haven’t completely given up, but it is hard to keep fighting even though I know it has to be done. There are times that I simply have to rest and pray and breathe deeply. At those times, I remember that I am talking to other people and that we are all trying to battle a computer glitch together. This has helped me to be nice and encouraging to those I am speaking with and they have expressed their appreciation.

I am reminded that my problem will eventually be fixed, one way or another. But many people don’t have that sense of assurance. They don’t know if they will survive or if their family members will survive the situations that they are in. Hopelessness and exhaustion can overtake them. A sense that it is better just to settle and make do can prevail.

Prayer is not just for resting and restoration. Prayer also is for us to listen to the call of Love. Prayer is the time to pay attention to dreams and to gather courage to work to make them come true. Prayer is a time to remember that we are made to be in community and that we must work together with the help of our Creator.

It would be nice to have all of the answers. I don’t. But I do know that prayer is the place to start. I hope you will join me.