Rev. Colleen Irwin

When Powerlessness Meets Spirit: Responding to the “Big Beautiful Bill”

I’ve been sitting with a heavy ache in my spirit, The passage of the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” has left me grieving—not just for the policies themselves, but for the spiritual betrayal they represent. As a spiritual teacher rooted in compassion, I cannot ignore what’s unfolding.

Scripture tells us: Care for the poor. Tend the sick. Protect the vulnerable. These are not metaphors. They are instructions for sacred living. And yet, this bill—celebrated with bravado—seems to do the opposite. It punishes the powerless while enriching the already powerful.

Across all major spiritual traditions, one truth echoes: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Whether you call it karma, the Golden Rule, or sacred reciprocity—it is the foundation of a moral life. This bill violates that rule.

Natural law reminds us that justice, compassion, and respect for life are not just human ideas—they reflect the universe’s inherent order. When laws contradict these principles, they are out of alignment with Spirit’s design.

All I could do was done in my community. Voting, speaking up, holding space in circles, and encouraging others to raise their voices. Still, the tide swept through.

What Broke Me

And what broke me open was the image of lawmakers—standing shoulder to shoulder—praying for the bill’s passage as the vote happened.

Not praying for the

• poor
• others who will suffer
• end of war
• elderly who will be pushed further into isolation
• children who will lose care or safety or their future

They prayed for power. For a win. For control.  That’s not faith. That’s performance.

Prayer, in its truest form, connects us to love, humility, and service. It’s not meant to bless injustice. And when it’s used as a photo op to sanctify harm, it becomes spiritual distortion.

Spiritually, this moment asks something of us. Not just to stay informed, but to stay awake. When laws strip away dignity, when those in power disregard the sacredness of every soul, we are called to witness and to feel—even when it hurts.

Yes, I feel powerless. But I also feel this – Powerlessness is not the end of the story.  It is the beginning of a deeper call.  We are not powerless. Nor are not alone.  But we are needed. Right now. Show up. Speak truth. Protect one another.  This moment calls for more than hope. It calls for action rooted in love—and love rooted in justice.