Benedict Inn Retreat & Conference Center
For peace of mind, body & spirit
Reflections from our Spiritual Directors
New Year Resolution Haiku
by
Jan Jett (SDI 1997)
Just a minute - pause
busy day but find
time-pause each day,
stop to PAUSE
pause
to remember
pause and
listen to God
each day stop and PAUSE
Slowing Down
By Cindy Sturgeon (SDI 2013)
With my focus on soul care this year, I began a new practice last night. At sundown I lit two candles (actually I bought two battery operated candles for this practice). Borrowing from the Jewish tradition I said a blessing to God for the gift of Sabbath and my commitment to honor the Sabbath more this year than I have in the past.
When I woke with the candles still shining, it reminded me of my commitment to be more intentional in spending the Sabbath worshipping and resting. It is just one small step on my journey this year to pause and let my soul catch up.
Here is to a new year of slowing down and really seeing the good in this world. Take off your shoes for there is holy ground all around you.
Expectations
Sr. Antoinette Purcell, OSB (SDI 1997)
The winter storm didn’t live up
to expectations. Deep snow
warnings didn’t materialize.
In anticipation some schools closed.
Others announced E-learning.
Whatever happened to snow days?
Only a few inches of white,
leaving some disappointed,
turned quickly to slush on roads
I rejoiced to see beauty as
trees and ground of white
covered drab brown and gray.
On our spiritual journey
we sometimes anticipate dread
rather than trusting in LOVE.
Disappointment or joy?
It all depends on
Expectations and openness.