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
I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read on for Michael Kroth’s reflection on walking as a keystone, contemplative practice. Around the mountain Again flowers, birds, views, winds My feet hurt, heart
Dearest monks, artists, and pilgrims, Last Spring we created a prayer cycle and audio podcast series to accompany my book Birthing the Holy: Wisdom from Mary to Nurture Creativity and Renewal. Today we continue our release of the companion video podcasts with Day 2 Morning and Evening Prayer. The
This week we are featuring one of our Hildy Tails. This series of essays were composed last year for our Sustainers Circle. They were dictated to John by the Abbey’s mascot, Hildy the Monk-ey. Hildy is a bit of a free spirit who likes to
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