Reflections

I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read on for Amy Oden’s reflection The Ministry of Creation. I noticed it first when I needed respite from the demands of caregiving for my husband as he declined with dementia. When I became depleted or tempted to push myself beyond my own well-being, it was the trail along a nearby lake that saved me. I could walk the trail and weep or stare or daydream, the lapping waves and soft breezes offering balm to soothe and comfort me. I

We welcome you to submit your reflection for possible publication in our Monk in the World guest post series. It is a gift to read how ordinary people are living lives of depth and meaning in the midst of the challenges of real life. There are so many talented writers and artists in this Abbey community, so this is a chance to share your perspective. The link to the reflection will be included in our weekly newsletter which goes out to over 15,000 subscribers. Submit your own post from one of the following categories on the general theme of “How do I live

I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read of for Abbey friend and guest teacher Mícheál ‘Moley’ Ó Súilleabháin’s reflection and poem on Inis Cealtra/Holy Island. Looking out over the majesty of the lake from the Graves of the Leinstermen, I see only one island with pasture or grassland. All other islands on Lough Derg are completely covered in trees. This island, with its proud round tower just visible, is Inis Cealtra, or Holy Island, a magnificent early monastic ruin with a well preserved round tower and the