Daily I read a reflection by the Franciscan Monk Richard Rohr. At the end of each reflection readers are invited to sit in silent prayer called centering and reflect upon a phrase. Today the " Gateway to Silence" was "Awaken me to Love this day."
As I drove to the hospital, I felt more tired than normal and somewhat weary. I have been making this same routine for so many mornings. I am home really only long enough to do a little laundry and sleep. But, the only real explanation for the tiredness I felt today was that I am probably still recovering from my own surgery. And try as I might I couldn't quite shake it. Then I felt my mind tumble into the worries and what-ifs. I had to address myself and remind myself that no amount of worry or concern would change anything. The only moment we have is right now. It is important to live in the now. And I reminded myself that I have no idea of all the wonderful things that might happen this day and not to get too far ahead of myself. And then I was reminded of the reflection: "Awaken me to Love this day".
So many days, Love comes from unanticipated sources and experiences. Like today when I received a picture from our friend Torunn from Norway, who went through stem cell transplant with Doug. The picture captures the joy of the experience of receiving the hope of new life. And then another friend sent me another message regarding the 10 characteristics of strong women. And then our friend Norm came to visit at the hospital today. Norm is hospital chaplain. He was so helpful to me when he visited when Doug was so sick and it was wonderful to share this time on our journey with him today. Then I was reminded that it was my brother in-law's birthday today. He was married to my sister who died in 1982, so many years ago. He is a wonderful man and we shared an important time of our lives together. These are just a few things in this day. There are so many opportunities to awaken me to Love. So many opportunities to experience God in a very tangible way.
In times of tiredness, quietness, and change it is easy to withdraw and get caught up in the feeling rather than opening and inviting Love. That is the discipline I think; that is the point of prayer. We don't need to tell God our needs. God knows. But we, we need to find the gateway, to open ourselves to the experience, to love, to heal.
My friend Barb, after reading my post from yesterday offered this prayer. We are so thankful for the prayers of others. We rest in these prayers and in the Love made present in them. Thank you Barb.
God of Comfort and Healing, Surround Doug and Eileen with your love and your perfect peace. May they both be keenly aware of progress in this long journey towards health and wholeness. If it be your will, strengthen Eileen's knee and grant her strength. May she continue in her loving ministrations to Doug. May Doug be always aware of your love through Eileen and all of us, and if it be your will, may he regain his strength and wholeness. We pray in Jesus name. Amen
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