The Corn Stalk

Good morning sisters and brothers; 

Last night I walked through our field of corn stubble. I like it when our farmer does not plough the field after the harvest. It helps keep soil erosion down on cold and windy days, not to mention that there are thousands of corn kernels scattered about the field just waiting to be gleaned by hungry mice , raccoons, and crows. I also enjoy the sound made by my footsteps on the dry and brittle corn stubble. It is a calming sound, which brings me peace and always orients me toward the divine. 

As is often the case when I am walking the perimetre at Dunblane, I felt the need to pray. And as I finished my prayer, I happened to look down at my feet and took notice of the remains of a single corn stalk. Even in its brokenness, it was breathtakingly beautiful. On bended knee I drew closer for a better look. It is difficult to articulate my first impression. Although the corn stalk was firmly planted in the ground, seemingly immovable, there was a sense of motion. The root system was completely above ground, and it gave the impression that some kind of force was pulling the fractured stalk upwards. But the roots were not about to give. Through rain, wind, snow and bitter cold, they had not relinquished their grip. 

And I began thinking about those things that keep us firmly grounded that allow us to hold firm amidst the storms of life. 

There is family. 

There are friends.

There is our faith.

There is love, kindness, compassion, respect , inclusion, joy, forgiveness. 

My challenge for you this morning, my dear sisters and brothers, is to think about the things that keep you grounded. 

Like this solitary corn stalk, we too are fractured. But it is in our weakness and vulnerability that we find our true strength. 

Your homework is to write to me and describe the roots that keep you spiritually grounded. Yet at the same time, it is important to remember that the Holy Spirit allows us to soar unencumbered. 

I include this prayer to the Holy Spirit from Pope Francis 

"Holy Spirit, make my heart open to the word of God, make my heart open to goodness, make my heart open to the beauty of God every day."

Diosito me los colme de bendiciones y alegria siempre 

Paz 

Los quiero mucho 

Padre Juan