A friend shared something earlier today from Rebelle Society: Creatively Maladjusted’s blog titled Joseph Campbell, on the Art of Being Alive. I’ve written about Joseph Campbell here before and often think about things he’s taught me over the years. As we celebrate Gaudete Sunday, these particular words stand out for me…
“It reminds me of Isaiah‘s biblical poetry:
“{You} will find new strength. {You} will soar high on wings like eagles. {You} will run and not grow weary. {You} will walk and not faint.”
But between soar and soaring, Joseph advises: “Find a place inside where there’s joy, and the joy will burn out the pain.”
And you’ll be home, no matter where you are.
And it’ll be a new day, everyday.”
Today, I took Max out to a beautiful ridge above the Bow River and above our city…the Chinook winds were breathing new life into the landscape after such an extremely cold period accompanied by plenty of snow. From the outset of our hike, a bald eagle flew overhead. I was in awe of the power of its wings in such a strong wind and equally amazed that he stuck with us for the duration of our walk, hanging on the air and then diving, reaching up and then hovering, over and over again. What a blessing to be able to make such observations for an hour-long walk and to be swept up into the awe of ‘being alive’. What an amazing thing to have such a mighty and regal bird seem to look into my eyes for a sustained period of time, sometimes from as close as ten feet away.
This experience brings new meaning to the words
“{You} will find new strength. {You} will soar high on wings like eagles. {You} will run and not grow weary. {You} will walk and not faint.”
Sixteen years ago, today, a young student of mine passed away. It seems like yesterday. Where have those sixteen years gone? Today, walking in those hills, I felt as though I was given a little taste of heaven; joy in me…joy above me…joy beneath my feet…joy in my heart and in my head. All that I saw or experienced was glory-filled. It is such a privilege to encounter the divine in the places and people who surround us. It is a privilege to be a part of this journey. I am grateful…for Jarrett…for Mom…for those who have graced and grace my life each day. I am blessed.
The eagle symbolizes great strength, leadership and vision. It is often my connection to the devine. Many early mornings I get up and go to watch the eagles down by the river in hopes of capturing it on my camera. At times I get so overwhelmed by their beauty and grace, I forget to photography and get lost in the beauty. The eagle bestows freedom and courage to look ahead. Thank you for sharing your gift of words. Peace…… Angela
Angela…I am so blessed that we are family. I am in awe of your photographs…your writing…and your talented family members! I snap photographs of everything. Today I forgot that I was carrying my camera. :0)
Thank you Kathleen, I needed to read those words today, yours and the quotes. You reflect the beauty and joy you experienced in your beautiful and joyful writing and as always it reaches out, further and deeper than you can imagine…
I’m wishing you many such encounters on your path, John. You have an artist’s soul…and your work speaks consistently about these moments of awe that I write about.
Thank you for sharing your special thoughts. They are valued by me:)
Emily, thank you for your message and may you be blessed each day your little encounters with a very big life. You matter.
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