More roses

This season has been wonderful for roses, and my rose shrubs are in full glory. I’ll share a few more images, while the roses last. They present a beauty in their form, color, and scent which lifts up my soul every time I wander through the garden.

We seem to be living in a time of extremes: political polarization, racial polarization, self-quarantine vs. physical engagement, periods of busyness and times when there’s not much to do. I find it important to stay centered and not let myself be pulled into dejection or despair over our seemingly insurmountable differences.

The experience of beauty helps me to stay centered and lifts me up. Connecting with my environment and with nature helps me to stay centered. I think it’s important that we find what nourishes us and renews our spirit, particularly in these challenging and disturbing times.

We recently celebrated the solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi). Jesus nourishes us in the Eucharist to strengthen us for the journey and to remind us that he is truly present among us when we gather as a community to remember him and give thanks. Today we give thanks for the presence of God’s Spirit, as we walk the way of the cross on the road to union with God and with each other, little by little, step by difficult step, knowing that history is moving inevitably toward the fulness of life in Christ.

“I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.” (John 6:51)