Reflection
Those who dwell, as scientists or laymen, among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life. Whatever the vexations and concerns of their personal lives, their thoughts can find paths that lead to inner contentment and to renewed excitement in living. Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. There is symbolic as well as actual beauty in the migration of the birds, the ebb and flow of the tides, the folded bud ready for spring. There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature–the reassurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter.
Rachel Carson
Prayer
May I hold the mysteries of Earth as sacred.
Action
During this Season of Creation reflect on the rhythms of Earth. Think of how our actions have disturbed the ordinary balance of nature. Reflect on the fires, the severity of recent storms, the change in the weather of the seasons. Become an advocate for Earth. Support green organizations. Vote for green candidates. Make one decision to hold yourself responsible and change your behavior.
Suggested Reading
From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near.
Matthew 24:32
The universe unfolds in God, who fills it completely. Hence, there is a mystical meaning to be found in a leaf, in a mountain trail, in a dewdrop, in a poor person’s face. The ideal is not only to pass from the exterior to the interior to discover the action of God in the soul, but also to discover God in all things.
Pope Francis, Laudato Si
Be happy in the moment, that is enough. Each moment is all we need, not more.
Mother Teresa
It is no bad thing to celebrate a simple life.
J.R.R. Tolkien
This is a wonderful day. I’ve never seen this one before.
Maya Angelou
Live each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influences of each.
Henry David Thoreau
You expected to be sad in the fall. Part of you died each year when the leaves fell from the trees and their branches were bare against the wind and the cold, wintry light. But you knew there would always be the spring, as you knew the river would flow again after it was frozen.
Ernest Hemingway
In every walk in with nature one receives far more than he seeks.
John Muir
Love the world as your own self; then you can truly care for all things.
Lao Tzu
If we surrendered to earth’s intelligence we could rise up rooted, like trees.
Rainer Maria Rilke
If people sat outside and looked at the stars each night, I’ll bet they would live a lot differently.
Unknown