Blog by Sr. June Fitzgerald, OP[/caption]
Perhaps you call it something else like I do. Mine is an ever expanding “adventures and wish list.” Over the years, my list has expanded, things have been crossed off either having been accomplished or I’ve decided it isn’t something I really want to do, like bungee jumping. That came off the list after I broke my leg preparing for a trip to the Everglades (that’s another blog). The thought of reinjuring it . . . well that’s just too terrifying.
August is usually the month when I go on vacation. This year, I went to Boston, Massachusetts. In reviewing the “things to do in Boston” section of the tour guide, I came across Whale Watch Tours from the Boston Aquarium and knew I was about to cross off another adventure from my list. I researched the outfit place to be sure that it adhered to the guidelines under the Marine Mammals Protection Act. Reassured and carrying my handy dandy tote with sunscreen, a hat, whale watch guide, snacks, water and my cell phone to take pictures, I set off.
Our tour boat, the Asteria, encountered multiple humpback whales feeding, breaching and playing in the smooth ocean waves. These creatures were magnificent! To watch them was poetry and prayer. I recalled Psalm 148:7 – a psalm of praise - where the psalmist sings, “Praise the LORD from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths.” Indeed, as the whale breached the surface of the water and hovered in the air for a moment, time stood still and I realized that this whale was praising God in its magnificent whaleness. Being just as God created it – reveling in the feel of the water, jumping to communicate with the other humpbacks, eating fish by the ton – this whale was alive and in it’s very being praising God.
How do I praise God for the wonder of my being? How do you?
God calls us to respect all life and that begins with our own lives. How do I care for my body, mind, spirit and live a life worthy of my call? I invite you to take a moment to be aware of where you are right now. Where you’re sitting, standing, laying down…be aware of your breathing, your heart beat . . . God dwelling within and around you – be aware of it all. In whatever way you feel called to, praise God for the wonder of your being and ask God to help you be the best YOU, you can be.
God calling you to something more? Contact us, to start the conversation.