… watching for the brushstrokes of God
Kaitlin B. Curtice in her book Native talks about the importance of keeping our hearts soft when we engage in the work of truth-telling, of asking hard questions, and hold grace in difficult situations.
What tools do you use to soften your heart?
The journey of reconciliation is grounded in a call to see and encounter the rupture of this world so truthfully that we are literally slowed down. We are called to a space where … we are called to learn the anguished cry of lament. … it is the cry of those who see the truth of the world’s deep wounds and the cost of seeking peace. It is the prayer of those who are deeply disturbed by the way things are. ~ Katangole/Rice, Reconciling all things
Where do you learn lament?
In the spring magic happens all around us. New life emerges from the seemingly barren ground, colors seem brighter, and birds burst forth in song. “Deep hidden springs of magic” as Alfred Noyes wrote.
Are you growing in awareness?
…Rest your weary eyes from so much looking,
your tired feet from so much wandering,
your aching heart from so much hoping.
…Give up the weight of knowing,
for the reverence of quiet attention
and curiosity… ~ Christine Valters Paintner
How do you become attentive?
“Let there be
an opening
into the quiet
that lies beneath
the chaos,
where you find
the peace
you did not think
possible
and see what shimmers
within the storm.” ~ Jan Richardson, The Cure for Sorrow
Spend some time gazing at the image. What draws your eyes? What narrative does it draw you into? Or what walk does it take you on? What feelings or emotions does it evoke in you?
With the Eyes of the Heart 