Even without photographs, I can still see my grandmother’s Christmas tree. The image is enfolded in a peaceful blanket of consolation and joy that is hard to describe. Large colored lights on green that burn and blur in calmness as my heart’s eye watches them. …
ALL ABOUT EVE
In the first reading of the Scripture for today’s celebration of the Immaculate Conception GN 3: 9-15, 20, we hear a recounting of perhaps the original biblical “blame game.” Suddenly, after eating of the forbidden tree in the garden, Adam realizes he is “naked.” …
Advent Flames
Where is the wick of compassion
From Candles snuffed out
Too often with violence?
Lying beneath now solid wax,
Awaiting a Phoenix to burn yet again!
Light the wick and quicken the wax!
Carve it out and trim it down;
For Flames to reach skyward
Need wax and wick,
Both birthed and berthed in generous care!…
MOUNTAIN REUNION
Recently, from another room at a friend’s house, I heard Leonard say, “I miss the mountains.” I was immediately distracted from the conversation I was having and placed mentally somewhere “out West” in a National Park, hiking a trail, admiring nature, and talking loudly to ward off potential encounters with bears. …
PEACE OF MERCY
Today’s Scripture readings are as disturbing as they are consoling to me! Luke (LK 19: 41-44) has Jesus describing violent destruction, killing and being encircled by your “enemies.” Interestingly, the Scripture passage immediately prior to this describes Jesus’ celebrated entry into the holy city Jerusalem, where the excitement of the people, who saw him as a messiah sent to save them, prompted them to throw down their cloaks on the road before Him – hopes and dreams for a better life, a saved way of living –they chant!…