"The whole experience felt as if it was a prayer. This verse attempts to paint prayer as a way of life and the act of holding ones experience lightly, not declarations made from a place of authority and power."
Brian, this is beautiful to see unfolding in your work. I feel like you've described the essence of a contemplative life. The question I'm always holding is how to extend the insights gleaned on retreat into the practice of my ordinary life, on an ordinary Tuesday. On one hand, there is always a long list of duties and responsibilities to be fulfilled at work and at home, and on the other hand, there is the driving force of pure poetry, art and pleasure. I see the balance of the two as contemplative life. Contemplative Christianity is possible. It has a long tradition dating back to the Desert Fathers & Mothers. I'm one who believes this was actually what Jesus modeled for us: prioritizing a life of love and compassion, retreating alone to quiet places to pray and recharge, prayers with few words . . .
Wonderful poem, Brian, and an equally wonderful look at the process that birthed it.
I live alone and there really isn’t much left to get away from, except myself, but I rather enjoy my own company. I do get away at times, walking through the park located at the southern edge of the lake or along the trails in the local arboretum and nature preserve, but I’m still a solitary wanderer.
I am Catholic too. I so appreciated your perspective! The breakdown was so calming.
Thanks, makes me happy it resonated with someone other than me!
"The whole experience felt as if it was a prayer. This verse attempts to paint prayer as a way of life and the act of holding ones experience lightly, not declarations made from a place of authority and power."
Brian, this is beautiful to see unfolding in your work. I feel like you've described the essence of a contemplative life. The question I'm always holding is how to extend the insights gleaned on retreat into the practice of my ordinary life, on an ordinary Tuesday. On one hand, there is always a long list of duties and responsibilities to be fulfilled at work and at home, and on the other hand, there is the driving force of pure poetry, art and pleasure. I see the balance of the two as contemplative life. Contemplative Christianity is possible. It has a long tradition dating back to the Desert Fathers & Mothers. I'm one who believes this was actually what Jesus modeled for us: prioritizing a life of love and compassion, retreating alone to quiet places to pray and recharge, prayers with few words . . .
I like your description of what a contemplative life is…that very much resonates with me!
Wonderful poem, Brian, and an equally wonderful look at the process that birthed it.
I live alone and there really isn’t much left to get away from, except myself, but I rather enjoy my own company. I do get away at times, walking through the park located at the southern edge of the lake or along the trails in the local arboretum and nature preserve, but I’m still a solitary wanderer.
Definitely beauty in being comfortable with yourself!
You have inspired me, Brian. I have never accepted from myself the gift of a solo retreat. In this, the year I am 65, I think it is a must.
Definitely. Even just a couple of days! 💫