We read and reflect on Esther 5. I talk about wisdom and facing one emotional hurdle at a time. I also talk about the first ACA promise and commit to giving myself approval.

We read and reflect on Esther 4. I talk about taking time to make decisions and not worrying about what other people expect, especially when I am at my bottom. I commit to writing out a story.

We read and reflect on Esther 3. I talk about the very small ways evil can become unquestioned and then normal. I also talk about wanting to live by a different law.

We read and reflect on Esther 2:5-9, 13-23. I talk about a beautiful assignment I had in seminary. I give myself permission not to parade my intentions of identity.

We read and reflect on Esther 1:1-4, 10-120. I talk about RBG’a passing and process my fury at Mitch McConnell and commit to doubling my donation to his opponent. Vashti... you go girl.

We read and reflect on Psalm 70. I give myself permission to enjoy the relationships where people seek me out. I also talk about the serenity of being able (and prepared!) to say “you might be right.”

We read and reflect on Psalm 62. I talk about politics and the president and how there are listeners who both abhor him and who support him. I commit to giving to a political campaign (though I don’t say which) and also listening to a politics podcast.

We read and reflect on Psalm 61. I talk about being sad in the present in a way that doesn’t affect my faith from the past or for the future. I also commit to writing in an affirmation journal for the length of one song.

We read and reflect on Psalm 64. I talk about the reality that words hurt. I also talk about the perhaps counterintuitive way that complaining helps us find out power.

We read and reflect on Psalms 8, 24, and 84. I talk about my immigration policy, and then pivot to not singing lots of songs I know. Then I talk about not feeling whole hearted.