I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read on for Maryellen Whitaker’s reflection and poem A few small ways to grow in contemplation.
In the Way of the Monk, Path of the Artist retreat, Te Martin sang a song called The Golden Thread which talks about a spider weaving a golden thread to the “center of your knowing.” My poem derives mainly from the retreat segment which talks about how nature can support the creative process, with Te’s song being part of that segment. However, there are filaments which spring from other sources. For example, at some point in my time with the Abbey, it was suggested that I write a poem of instruction, while the catalyst for the image of the blue heron came from a story I read years ago. Somehow the images kept arriving in a way, which are connected by the “golden thread” of the kinship of all humanity and the kinship of humanity with nature. The poem relates to my contemplative practice in that, with the help of the Abbey, I want to grow in seeing—and in expressing that seeing—with the eyes of my heart and soul. This poem is offered humbly and as a simple gift.
A few small ways to grow in contemplation
Mind the marsh reeds at the edge of the bay.
See the great blue heron atop the green fir.
Break open your heart with the broken.
If possible go to the beach—
Let your feet feel the gray-blue pebbles and the broken pastel shells.
Know the breeze as the breath of God.
Sense the music of your soul.
Love what is stunted, malnourished, pained and
sometimes full of grit and grime.
Fill the hive of your days with the golden nectar of goodness.
Read Scripture like a love note.
Bite into the orange apricot and let the juice slide down.
Engage in “useless” wonder.
Watch the white rose of sharon open and close.
Do the same with the day lilies.
Wait on grace as the crops do spring rains.
Treat the silence like manna.
It is holy. Eat of it.
Maryellen Whitaker SSJ is a Sister of Saint Joseph of Philadelphia, Pa. who lives in Mount Airy, a diverse suburb of the city. A retired teacher, she has taught high school and college English. She loves engaging with the Abbey and with members of her book club.
