Nobody sees a flower, really, it is so small.
We haven’t time–– and to see takes time, like to have a friend takes time.
-Georgia O’Keeffe
I walked up to Volunteer Park today after the morning rain had abated, to take time to really see the flowers and capture the beauty of the dahlias in full bloom.
-Christine Valters Paintner
A Blessing for Creativity*Spirit of Holy Imagination,we ask you to bless our visionwith the wisdom to see what is possible. Help us trust our desire to createthrough color, word, shape, gesture, and song. When our fingers trembleat picking up a pen or marker,connect us to
I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read on for Wisdom Council member Michael Moore’s reflection on Sabbath and Silence. I am thankful to Christine and the Abbey community for this opportunity
Dearest dancing monks, There is much uncertainty and unknown right now. Many of us are in deep grief and I encourage you to bestow lavish hospitality on all of your feelings – let your rage, sadness, despair, confusion, and more have space in you. Move
6 Responses
Thank you Cathleen and Ron for blessing me with your words. Yes, the beauty does sing so loudly when we slow ourselves down.
Peace and blessings, Christine
Christine, what breath taking beauty…it astounds me, how loudly in the midst of silence that creation continuously glorifies the creator. Thanks for sharing what your eyes have seen in the sacred spaces that surround your day.Peace…Ron+
Awesome. Such simple beauty. Another invitation to slow down, and look, and listen, and be.
With gratitude,
Cathleen
Thank you Sally! It is amazing what happens when we slow down and really see.
Bette, what a truly gorgeous poem. I am so deeply touched. What a gift you have offered. Thank you so much for your ongoing support and faithful presence.
Love and blessings to you both, Christine
Here is a Tanka/Waka (Japanese short-form poem) dedicated to the women who visit here and for Christine (since I used your title in my line three :) in sincere appreciation for your breathtaking photography you’ve given us today.
Such radiance
after the morning rain,
delightful dahlia–
oh how its color reflects
into the tears on your cheeks.
Bette.
Christine- these are stunning- I need to spend time in my garden just looking!
Thank you
Sally