A Summer Prayer

Well, it appears that summer has arrived in Nova Scotia!!! At Last!!!

It has been almost a week now that I have not been tempted to turn the heat on! Although the weather has felt more like fall many of us have entered summer mode. Some people have already left town to take up residence at the cottage; others are slowing down the pace to tend to the garden and enjoy family time; and still others are counting down the days till vacation! (only two more days to go for me!!!!)

A Slower Pace

Creation is alive with newness, colour, warmth and activity and we are reminded of the wonder and joy that surrounds us. In church life, summer brings a slower pace as well. Meetings, groups, studies, gathering – all take a respite until September. It is a time to re-energize and replenish.

A Summer Prayer

In their book “The Heart’s Journey Through the Seasons. The Circle of Life” Joyce Rupp and Macrina Wiekerkehr have shared some amazing reflections on the spiritual lessons contained in the four seasons. In the section on Summer they offer “A Summer Prayer”. As I prepare to leave for vacation I leave you with this blessing.

May you breathe in the beauty of summer with its power of transformation
May this beauty permeate all that feels un-beautiful in you.

May you seek and find spaces of repose during these summer months.
May these moments refresh and restore the tired places within you.

May you be open to times of celebration and recreation that are so much a part of summer.
May you find happiness in these times of play and leisure.

May your eyes see the wonders of summer’s colours.
May these colours delight you and entice you into contemplation and joy.

May you feel the energy of summer rains penetrating thirsty gardens, golf courses, lawns and farmlands.
May these rains remind you that your inner thirst need quenching.
May your inner self be refreshed, restored and renewed.

May you savour the fresh produce that comes to your table
And enjoy the fruits of summer’s bounty

May you find shelter when the stormy skies of summer threaten your safety.
May Spirit the Spirit give shelter when the inner storms threaten peace of mind and heart

May you enjoy the unexpected and find surprises of beauty and happiness
As you travel the roads on summer vacation and may you be led to amazing discoveries.

Blessings
Valerie

Graphics by: Beulah Bouzane, www.bci-esolutions.com