WE BELONG TO THE EARTH AND TO EACH OTHER

Tranquil Lake Cheston, University of the South,  Sewanee, TN

On a hot summers day, I enjoy a walk around the lake.  As I walk, I often pray in gratitude for the animals I encounter,  even the corn snake lying quiet and still in my path, enjoying the warm sunshine.  I think about how good the sun feels on my body, too. 

Frequently, I see deer who seem perfectly at peace in my presence as I stroll past them.  They stand still and stare at me with their ears raised in a holy hush.  Sometimes I stop and stare right back at them with a blessing flowing from my heart.  What graceful, beautiful creatures they are with their luminous brown eyes!  A holy hush comes over me in their presence. 

At times like these, I feel a oneness with the deer and snakes and birds who serenade my walk and fill it with joy.  We all depend on the earth for our food, water and air.   She is our bountiful mother who feeds and cares for us.   

Lord, may my soul be as quiet and still as this tranquil lake so troubled people can experience peace in my presence and receive hope in the midst of their troubles.  May animals experience me as a calm presence that respects their rights to the bounty of the earth and appreciates their unique gifts.  May I take the time to really look at and bless the creatures I encounter.  May I never forget that we all belong to the earth and to each other.  Amen.