Phoenix Rising

Buenas noches hermanas y hermanos;

Earlier this summer I wrote a reflection about the ivy that Nina and her late sister JJ planted at Dunblane farm nearly two decades ago. The ivy was always an organic connection to JJ, a reminder of the bond between sisters. Over the years the ivy slowly crept up white tower here at Dunblane. If you recall, we asked a landscaper to carefully trim around the windows in order to let sunlight into the house. We were away when the landscape company showed up, and they took it upon themselves to cut the ivy at the base of the tower and to rip down most of the beautiful greenery.  In a matter of an hour, they erased what had taken 20 years to grow. To Nina, this was like a death in the family. It was devastating to say the least. It was especially difficult to witness the remaining ivy withering up and end up looking like dry bones hanging on the side of the tower. 

Not long ago , as we were coming back from a run down the Wabash road, we walked by the tower and noticed something spectacular. There was fresh ivy growing from the base of the tower, climbing upwards, clinging miraculously to the side of the tower. The work that Nina and JJ had begun so long ago was not dead after all.  On the contrary. The vines were literally teeming with life. It was a wonderfully joyous discovery. 

I was reminded of the Phoenix. The mythical Phoenix bird of fire and eternal life represents the cycle of life, death, and rebirth, symbolizing transformation and renewal. It is a powerful symbol of endurance and hope. 

Let us pray 

Keep watch , dear Lord, 
with those who wake, or watch, or
weep this night,
and give your angels charge over 
those who sleep. 
Tend the sick, 
give rest to the weary,
sustain the dying,
calm the suffering,
and pity the distressed,
all for your love's sake, O Christ our 
Redeemer. 

Amen 

Diosito me los colme de bendiciones y alegria 

Paz 

I love you 

John