Our Gentle Gaze

In quiet stillness, we sit upon weathered wood, our faithful companion nestled close. Hours pass like fleeting dreams as we gaze, not seeking answers, only allowing the world its presence. Cracked asphalt stretches before us, a humble tapestry of existence. Why does it endure, we ponder? No answers come, yet love flows for its simple being. Graffiti-marred dumpsters stand, tagged with declarations of unexpected affection. "I love you!" we proclaim, and we accept their flawed beauty. A raggedy fence, torn and mended by time, becomes a thing of subtle grace beneath our gentle gaze. Pale skies whisper their subtle beauty, and in this unspoken communion, life's nakedness was enough. A silent hymn of praise rise from our soul, unbidden. And in this act of gazing, without judgment, without analysis, without critique, we find our self touching the divine in all things.

May we find peace in the quiet stillness, allowing love to flow for the simple being of all things, touching the divine in each gentle gaze.

(adapted from Richard Rohr, morning meditation, January 29, 2024)