Of the four measures, over the last 29 years, I’ve had more Freedom and Creativity than Power and Respect. There is an inverse relationship between the two groups, with more Power and Respect there is a loss of Freedom and Creativity. Within each group, there are dynamics as well. Freedom nourishes Creativity as Respect can Nourish Power. But one can be free and not find creativity, and one can have power without respect. The measures with the most depth and longevity are Creativity and Respect; these are the hardest to cultivate and to reduce. Power and Freedom are fleeting.

How will I go forward with Love and Faith? I despair at my lack of both. I’ve never been truly loved except by God. He knows that for us, that’s not enough. The same is true of Faith. He’s always answering our intentions with acceptance and cooperation, but like Peter, it’s not enough. Love is giving knowing there is no return, and perhaps no improvement. There is no calculation that accompanies it. Faith is trust not in an outcome but in the certainty that, as H. Richard Neibuhr wrote, whatever is, is good. I will never stop trying not to try. 

<—Day Twelve: Faith is Confidence Over Fear