After the Storm

Late last week a powerful thunderstorm swept through the area, bringing with it soaking rains and high winds. At its height the landscape held its breath. I saw dozens of little birds huddled together in the swaying branches of our northern kiwi, hanging on for dear life. I pictured all the wild bunnies that make Dunblane their home, safe and dry in their warrens. The raccoons were undoubtedly ensconced in the hay loft, oblivious to the chaos of the storm. I imagine that a day such as this one could have inspired Antonio Vivaldi to write the final movement of his violin concierto  summer from The Four Seasons. It depicts a violent thunderstorm. 

The storm ended almost too abruptly. It was as though nature was playing the part of an  orchestra conductor who had raised her baton and with a subtle movement had silenced the elements. 

I stepped out onto the Copacabana Deck to admire an impossibly brilliant rainbow. But what really caught my eye was the oak tree at the edge of Dunblane. It is not the massive oak which stands a solitary vigil in the middle of our fields and is estimated to be nearly 350 years old. But make no mistake, this oak is also ancient and  majestic. 

And the storms it has witnessed. 

Cold winters, blistering summers. 

Drought, and flooding. 

And yet, there it stands, seemingly immoveable.  

I am always surprised at the calm and beauty that follows a storm. 

As I stood there staring at the oak tree, the world came back to life. The birds took to the air , the bunnies ventured out and several turkey vultures alighted on the roof of our century barn. 

If any of you in our little reflection group is in the midst of a personal storm, be assured that you are not alone. 

Take a deep breath.

Hold for three seconds. 

Exhale slowly. 

We will pray for one another. 

Feel the presence of the Risen Christ and open your hearts to the healing power of the Holy Spirit. 

Let us be kind to ourselves, others and to all animals. 

Let us together seek the peace that only God can provide, the peace that passes all understanding. 

That is the calm after the storm. 

Let us pray 

Lord God, the well-spring of life, pour into our hearts the living waters of your grace. By your light we see light. Increase our faith and grant that we may walk in the brightness of your presence, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen 

Paz 

Que Diosito me los colme de bendiciones y alegría siempre 

Con mucho amor 

Padre Juan