The Only Appropriate Response
- Rev. Ani
- Sep 16, 2021
- 2 min read
Poems From The Porch
“The universe unfolds in an optimal way, and part of that unfoldment happens through you and your actions.” (A.H. Almaas)
“All things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to God‘s purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
We live in a benevolent, participatory universe in which every moment is a gift.
We did not create ourselves, nor do we sustain our lives.
We are completely dependent on the abundant provision of the present moment.
Our one and only task is to show up completely as ourselves.
No justification is necessary for our presence
as an inherent part of this great interdependent work of art that we call Life.
The opportunity to be here now is not always comfortable
and may not make sense to a mind that judges,
but if we could step back from the canvas,
we would see the majesty of the painting
and feel humbled and grateful for our part in it.
Then thank you would feel like the only appropriate response.
Engaging With The Poem
Poetry can be a doorway to the soul and your own creativity. Throughout the ages, the written word has been used as a means to access personal truth and as a vehicle for prayer through the practice of sacred reading (lectio divina). I encourage you to try this beautiful practice and let its fruits be self-evident.
How to Practice Sacred Reading
· READ
· REFLECT
· RESPOND
· REST
Read the passage through slowly more than once, noticing how it feels in your body and the response of your heart.
Reflect: What word resonates with you? What phrase speaks to you?
What overall personal meaning comes to you? Allow yourself to follow a tangent.
Respond by making space for the prayer of your heart to manifest. Write down the words and/or phrases that resonate with you and allow them to arrange themselves into your own poem or prayer.
Rest with your eyes closed, perhaps using the word that most resonates with you as your mantra for silent meditation.
Dear friend,
May your mind be peaceful and calm,
may your body be relaxed and comfortable,
and may your heart be filled with love.
Thank you for reading.
Blessings and gratitude,
Ani
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