DIAMOND HEART (AFTER THE RAIN)

 

This beautiful South African plant held a heart of water after the rain - which glistened like a diamond in the sun. Intent on gardening, I stopped; arrested by the beautiful sight. 

As the plant was - after the rain - so, too, are we. Each of us has many layers, different talents, various capabilities - much as the many-layered leaves of this little plant. Within our hearts, all of us contain a diamond. Each of us has a prism of the Almighty God within our being, we are all made "in the Image and Likeness of God" (Genesis 1:27). Humankind has been made in God's Image in our moral, spiritual and intellectual nature.

Let us never disrespect another individual. If we do so, we run the risk of disrespecting the Image of God within that person. The diamond within our being also may be tears, sorrows or grief. We may have a struggling Image of God within our souls due to sin, difficulties or lack of knowledge. Yet: here is the wonderful truth. We are all bound towards God, on many different roads. Let us reach out our hands across any perceived divide and connect with others on their traverse towards God.

Let us discover the diamond within our hearts and souls; and help others, to discover theirs.

AFRICA - RHINOCEROS

 With thanks to the sculptor

ROSE STAINED GLASS WINDOW

 

Rose window often refers to a circular window, especially those found in Gothic Cathedrals and churches. The windows are divided into segments by stone mullions and tracery. The term rose window was not used before the 17th century, and comes from the English flower name 'rose'.

Like the Eastern mandala, rose windows often symbolized how various smaller parts could form a harmonious whole and attain perfect unity.

Our families, societies, places of worship and countries form rose windows. Every family has family members. When all pull together with their diverse personalities and talents, a familial rose window may be formed. I know, I know . . . sometimes easier said than done. But a family is a living rose window. There are times when sorrow and suffering weave less light-filled experiences into our lives. Yet there are always the luminous joys and the good times - much as the rose window.

Every society has members. When all join together, a beautiful harmony may be created. Let us uplift those in difficulty, support those in need, and rejoice in all achievements. Let us form rose windows of peace, joy, tolerance, respect and patience within our societies for all.

Our place of worship has congregants. Let all who believe in God be a light upon a hilltop to the world, a rose window of individuals with talents working together to bring peace, harmony and the message of our Loving God to all.

Every country has citizens. Let us uplift the beautiful countries into which God willed us to be born.

Let your individual life be a mandala, a rose window of beauty to the world.

REMEMBRANCE

 

With thanks to the street artist

ANGEL

 

GUARDIAN ANGEL

 

ANGEL