The Awe of it All

I've slowly become a contemplative in these past years--a leaning into silence, an acceptance of God as Mystery, a slowing down to look more carefully, an awareness of staying in the present. Recently, a presenter defined contemplation as "Wow." He went on to explain that a contemplative person is gifted with a capacity for wonder and awe--whether with another person or alone, whether at work or play, whether at a computer screen or out in nature.

To me, being out in nature, especially this time of year, is like being given the 'Go' card to practice contemplation. I feel as if I'm walking around saying, "Wow." "Wow." "Wow." Words cannot hold it all. The white trunks of birches against the golden leaves. The red red cranberries on the shiny ovate leaves. The glint of Eagle River as it slows down again. The surprise of snow on the peaks again. Rustling leaves on the path. The distant call of geese migrating south.

Contemplation is a 'lifting of the heart to God in a stirring of love," says Wm. Menniger, Trappist monk. The tree outside my window blazes in the morning light. Yes, this kind of love.