Thursday, April 17, 2008

Dear God,

Very few people have a chance to lie in bed with a laptop computer on their lap, looking out a third story retreat center window at a long line of blooming trees overlooking a field. What a phenomenal sight just as the sun was rising in the east. This is home to Roman Catholic nuns, women who have given themselves to you in service and hospitality.

This holy place has been home to many women whom I have guided on retreat. They have found respite from the storms of life. They have discovered a well of water designed to quench their thirst. They have uncovered ways that faith interjects a word of hope in the midst of the vicissitudes of life. They have known meaning and purpose through a variety of exercises. They have reveled in the joys of friendship and shared fragile secrets in trust with the Creator. They have surrendered old belief systems about themselves and God. They have carved out a new way of being and adopted new beliefs. They have breathed in light, leaving darkness to dissipate in the air. They have cried out their long-overdue tears and laughed in the spirit at themselves. They have worshipped your in so many ways. They have danced in joy and spilled confetti at our celebration. They have experienced a lavish love poured from heaven.

This is our home together, home because we have been so warmly welcomed. Together because we are a community, sisters who cherish one another, buoy one another, affirm and support one another, cheer one another on in taking a step forward in faith and growth.

As I lie here in bed, I realize how close you are, Creator God. I can see, smell, taste, feel and hear you. Your glory abounds here.

Wondrous God,
you are ever making
all things new.
Like clay
in your hands,
we allow ourselves
to be reshaped,
your spirit renewing us.
In quiet solitude
I smile,
remembering
and giving thanks.

Loving you always, Andrea