I read this brief reflection at the start to my week: Finding Your Perfect Point of Gratitude. It has framed my attempt to approach this week with increased awareness of the everyday blessings that God affords me – and yes, even those which are wrapped up as challenges. Noteworthy experiences include an alternate route through San Francisco on my ride home from the office that took me through the Presidio (depicted)…to my daughter’s enthusiasm for the eco-challenge at her school which inspired her to go completely waste-free (a.k.a. wrapper-less) in packing her lunch. Yesterday’s contrasts included my oldest son’s excitement at the receipt of his 8th grade sweatshirt at school, a rite of passage of sorts for his classmates and him….to the long, quiet ride I enjoyed through the city with my other (more introverted) son as together we enjoyed some calm music and breathtaking views throughout a crisp, clear and beautiful city afternoon (en route to the orthodontist, of all places!).
Mercy in a World Becoming – Madeline Ducket RSM
Blessed be the mercy we hold deep in our hearts.
Blessed be the boots that carry us to action
for mercy´s sake in our world.
Blessed be rest times when boots are taken off.
Blessed be the prayer that rises in our boots off resting.
Blessed be the sacred balance of rest and contemplation.
Blessed be mercy received from others
And mercy given to all we meet
Blessed be the mercy journey
That beckons us forward to need.
Blessed be the journey´s end
When we take the final step into eternity.
Blessed be God, The Source,
Centre and End of all our mercy walking.
Amen
From Boots Cracked Pot and a Place at the Table.
I loved this poem above shared at a meeting I logged into this morning. It reminds me of November serving as a “Month of Remembrance” whereby we recall those loved ones- family, friends and colleagues – who have gone before us. In that spirit, I am also happy to share a moving rendition of a classic song, “Wish You Were Here” that acknowledges the emotion involved in the process of of healing.
May God continue to empower us to embrace the mercy we receive from God, ourselves and others. Blessings on your week ahead!
Keeping the Faith 