It’s looking more and more like spring here in Seattle, and we’ve gotten some much appreciated sun in the last few days. Sometimes it seems like time passes without my notice, but the sum of days looking back is many. I’ve been reflecting on the beautiful poem “At the River Clarion” by Mary Oliver during the last couple days, especially the stanza below:
“Of course for each of us, there is the daily life.
Let us live it, gesture by gesture.
When we cut the ripe melon, should we not give it thanks?
And should we not thank the knife also?
We do not live in a simple world.”
Each little gesture of our lives can be a moment for kindness, gratitude, and reflection. I found this theme also carried in St. David of Wales: Tending to the Little Things, by Elaine Breckenridge. Her writing tells the story of the life of a man whose simple daily actions spoke of his larger faith and what it offered to his community and the world.
Several writers creatively reflected on our Lent theme Breaking Down Walls. Christine’s Meditation Monday – Breaking Down Assumptions described how cracks can symbolize an opportunity to challenge our assumptions, remind us to look for those who have been excluded from society, and reflect on our own moments of brokenness and vulnerability. I thought Carol Dixon’s post Treasure in Clay Pots was a great follow up, as she incorporates several stories and extends the idea that perhaps our brokenness and cracks can be a source of beauty and significance. Breaking Things Down by Keren Dibbens-Wyatt explores what it means to pursue worthwhile change, and how we might reach out to the outcasts and ignored in our society.
I was very intrigued by Sheila Hamil’s post Breaking Down Walls, in which she includes an extended reflection on the interactions between Nicodemus and Jesus, and his movement from curiosity to faith. It also includes one of her original songs, which I always enjoy. Additionally, in her FreerangeFriday: Lenten Pilgrimage part 1, Lilly Lewin invites us to take a pilgrimage for Lent.
Coming up in the next few weeks is Christine’s next retreat, Preparing for the Garden Walk of Holy Week which will take place on Saturday, March 25th. Registration can be found here. We hope you will join her for this inspiring and revelatory time of scripture reading, quiet reflection and creative fun.
Grace and Blessings,
Rebecca Conner