Visit the Abbey of the Arts online retreat platform to access your programs:

How Does God Keep from Fainting?

The wonder of water moving over that rock in the stream
justifies existence.

The swish of a horse’s tail – again I am stunned
by the grandeur of the unseen One
that governs all
movement.

I resist looking at the palms of my hands sometimes.
Have you ever gotten breathless before a beautiful face
for I see you there,
my dear.

There is a wonderful problem waiting for you
that God and I share:

how to keep from fainting when we
see each other.

In truth:

how does God keep from fainting
looking at Himself all day?

Light is moving like a stream
and the myriad celestial beings
applaud.

-Rumi

You might also enjoy

Monk in the World Guest Post: Kiki McGrath

I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read on for Kiki McGrath’s reflection and visual art essay Contemplative and Creative Practice. For the past year I have been drawing and painting in

Read More »

Monk in the World Guest Post: Jamie Alm

I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read on for Jamie Alm’s reflection on contemplative presence and family life. How do I live as a monk in the world? How do I

Read More »

One Response