Summer's Abundance

Cucumbers picked daily multiply.
They become pickles--sweet and dill--when canned.

Peaches come in by the basketsful.
They become jam, peaches on ice cream, cereal or peach cobbler.

The raised garden shows off its giant sunflowers.
They look down on the vine-covered fence.

Flowers and vegetables thirst for rain.
The sun sears with heat.

Sr. Cathy in front of the garden .

Rain comes in downpours.
Branches fall but life revives.

A special oblate dies.
Do those who mourn realize their loss?

Politicians rant and rave.
Who will save?

Guns and suicide bombs kill and maim.
Who will save?

Compassion and mercy are Pope Francis' plea.
Who will listen?  Who will act?

Summer days grow short.
Will the night bring peace?
Will the morning bring new life?

Sr. Kathleen Ryan, OSB

Summer Energy

     Is there any significance in the fact that my own deadline for writing a blog coincided with July 4? Considering that lots of work takes place on holidays in the monastery, writing a blog, in comparison, should be a breeze. Yet in July, breezes can be rare. After all, this is vacation season! On the other hand, some work increases, e.g., house cleaning. Weekday mornings I help in the infirmary by delivering clean laundry. Today I'm subbing for Sr. Stella to bring communion to the infirmary sisters. A double privilege day for me!

    In comparison, writing a blog is a different kind of job and calls for a different kind of energy. No matter the season, several sisters step up to the task with a sense of dedication and pleasure in expressing their ideas and perspective at any time of year. So, here’s to a relaxing, re-invigorating summer!

  Sr. Martha Walther, OSB  

June 20--First Day of Summer

Summer is here!

Children giggle and squeal as they splash one another in the pool.

The yellow-green of spring’s trees has given over to full-leafed, deep green of summer.

Flowers are everywhere.

Bright rainbow colors: red, pink, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple.

They delight the eye.

Their scent perfumes the air.

Backyard cook-outs are the order of the day.

Mouth-watering aromas come from the grill.

What a feast when corn on the cob, homegrown tomatoes and strawberries are added!

Sunlight lasts into the evening.

As dusk settles over the land, a time of quiet peacefulness follows.

Summer offers some free time.

A time to play, renew and relax,

Summer’s gifts are to enjoyed and shared.

Be thankful for summer.

Take time for summer!

                                                               Sr. Kathleen Ryan, OSB