“Blessed are those who live in the present moment, for they will see God in all things.” If I had been there when the Beatitudes were written, I would have asked for this to be included. To me, living in the present moment is as important a virtue as meekness, peacemaking, mercy, and all the … Read more
Most people would assume that pearls of water as tiny as the heads of a pin are useless and worthless. But when you add water, they flicker until they are the size of large marbles. They are translucent and brightly colored. When fully saturated, they are used in vases to hold flowers. The dry pearls … Read more
Although no one is sure on what day St. Ignatius was born, some sources put it as October 23, 1491. During Ignatius’ birthday week we have a surprise party with that certain something – instead of surprising the honored, we should perceive God’s surprises all around us and find God in those moments, as Ignatius … Read more
Poverty is an oppressive, depressive, stressful and corrosive state. Those who carry his burdens were born or pushed into by circumstances beyond their control. When you are poor, your life is a constant search for a way out. Many of the working poor are only one step away from disaster. Illness, a car accident, and … Read more
I recently babysat my eight year old nephew Joshua. At the end of the day we were cuddled up and said some prayers. Always curious and curious about the bigger questions in life, we had talked about angels and saints and the whereabouts of our loved ones who had died. Still on big things, Josh … Read more
Last week I introduced the concept of prayer dreaming: allow yourself to daydream prayerfully. Today I propose an exercise in prayer. Use it as it is or work with it until you can use it in a way that suits you. Give yourself 15 minutes to be free from commitments, problem-solving, or other tasks. You … Read more
There are lines from a poem by Ted Kooser to his mother that I often think of. In the poem simply called “Mother”, Kooser mourns the death of his mother. He misses her. But it’s the last lines that haunt me: Wouldn’t it be what you taught me to look likein the world to see … Read more
I was a city kid until I moved to rural Vermont in 1979, which is still home to more trees than people. The northeast corner of Vermont is known for its exquisite fall foliage. People from all over the world come to enjoy the rich reds and yellows and oranges of the leaves, the bright … Read more
“May you take the time to celebrate the silent miracles that don’t seek attention.” —John O’Donohue I recently attended the fourth week of St. Ignatius started. One of my first tasks was to spend some time reflecting on how Mary met Jesus after the resurrection. The fruits of this unique prayer experience took my breath … Read more
Last summer, I entered the time of the retreat on my annual retreat, unsure of what I wanted from God. Of course, I always wish to draw closer to Christ and be renewed for the year to come. I hope for the comfort a retreat can bring. But as the retreat went on, I didn’t … Read more