A trace of last night’s snow covered some of the ground, with tips of grass peeking through. Our first snowfall in over a year! The sun was out, and had melted most of the little white dusting. Two excited young brothers across the street were bundled up against the winter wind, swaying the barren trees.Continue reading “HOPE”
Author Archives: Christina Delaney
When Hearth Hits Home
Sitting near a beautiful large stone fireplace in a Franciscan Friary, I imagine its use in years past, heating the large high-ceilinged gathering space. Now it serves as decor. No more wood in its belly, presently filled with artificial green ferns. What a beautiful, stately hearth! The room is currently warmed by wall heaters, underContinue reading “When Hearth Hits Home”
Berries of Hope
Wind blows. Another weakened leaf drifts downward, caught gently by Mother Earth. A hungry squirrel flicks his tail as he pauses atop my backyard fence. No birds at the feeders just now, though fallen seeds below attest to their visit. More bared branches admit vision to the blue November sky. Dormancy looms. As I turnContinue reading “Berries of Hope”
CHOICE
We’re asked to choose joy this day. Sorrow has been easier since the election results. Despair, hopelessness, and anger Are much easier beats in rhythm to Falling leaves and fallen hearts. The cool breeze holds a promise of bitter chill, As it stirs dried leaves at my feet. But, I know that choosing joy IsContinue reading “CHOICE”
Lady Maple
Lady Maple, skirt so bright, How your leaves bring us delight! Green through summer’s lengthy days, Your change to red does us amaze. A small green pine then caught my eye. He doesn’t “pop” like others nigh. Ah, but wait ’til winter days draw near: He will bring life to landscape drear. For now weContinue reading “Lady Maple”
What’s your song?
During a daily Mass, people were reverently quiet in prayer. The Scripture readings were proclaimed, the homily delivered, and as the Consecration began, I noticed persistent singing from outside. A mocking bird, no doubt! She joined in prayerful chorus with us, as we worshiped and thanked our Creator for life and love. She continued singingContinue reading “What’s your song?”
Who’s there?
Cooler morning air announces autumn’s approach. I ponder last night’s restless sleep: Hours of lying in wait, But for what? Solitary sounds sifted slowly through opened windows’ screens, Softly slicing silent stillness. Then, at 3 AM, haunting “whooo whooo whooo” trilogies: An Eastern Screech-Owl called from amid lazy cricket chirps, Like a winged horse’s whinnyContinue reading “Who’s there?”
Presence
“It is good to be here,” in the quiet, dimly lit chapel, following a well-attended Mass. A few people light votive candles, then kneel to pray. A young man, having just gone to Confession, re-enters the chapel to pray his penance. Two sets of dark wooden pews line the walls, facing one another, offering individualContinue reading “Presence”
** Fireworks **
I watched a 4th of July fireworks display last night. It was hot and muggy, but enjoyable to be with friends, family and community. Not one to gravitate to “live” fireworks in the uncomfortable heat (sometimes it’s pleasant to be indoors, watching them on television!), I began to search for a possible connection with GodContinue reading “** Fireworks **”
Who’s There?
I have the Merlin Bird app on my cell phone, and use it often. Sitting on the screened-in porch, I listen to birds call in surrounding trees. When curious about an unrecognized song, I use the app to record and identify the kind of bird who sings so beautifully. I’ve come to be able toContinue reading “Who’s There?”
Pondering Christ 