My phone’s alarm seems to be in a different time zone than my phone’s clock (same device, how does that happen?) so it woke me at 3:45 a.m. today for 5:30 Vigils and Lauds. At that hour I don’t usually rejoice in much, but from my window I watched the night sky gradually glow as the sun crept closer toward the horizon. I also listened to the rhythmic peal of the tower bells praising God at 5:15 a.m. For those things I do rejoice.
I napped a bit after breakfast and lectio divina, then had a nice long conversation with the new oblate director before noon prayer. The afternoon was spent walking around outside observing flora and fauna. I explored a new nature trail where surprise lilies had popped up all around me, some right on the path. I sat by a pond frequented by dragonflies and watched as a turtle shyly peeked at me from the water. I visited the grave of Fr. Columba Kelly, OSB, a highly respected and renowned musician, composer and leader of chant, who died last month. I meandered through the garden, full of fountains, fish, flowers and adornments; the monastery cat wandered over for some attention. Stepping out of the heat, I viewed the current art exhibit in the library and visited the Chapter Room where the monks gather to conduct business. Its ceiling and walls are beautifully painted and the windows artfully designed by Belgian monk Dom Gregory de Wit, OSB. Then it was time for Vespers, dinner with one of my organist friends, Compline, viewing the sunset, and evening prayer. Such a full day with so many moments to rejoice in God’s world!
This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. – Psalm 118:24
Bread for the Journey 