Rocks

January 28, 2024

Everywhere we go, there are rocks, and in most places, small rocks are free for the taking. Rocks and stones make great souvenirs. I have been collecting them since childhood. So, in my office, there are a lot of small rocks on desktops and bookshelves, each reminding me of where I found it.

I have one rock that reminds me of my visit to Vatican City, one from St. Benedict’s cave near Tivoli, Italy, another from Hadrian’s Wall in England, and another from the desert in Arizona. I have stones from the Isle of Iona in Scotland, some from the Caribbean islands, one from the pyramids in Egypt, and one from the Greek Isle of Santorini.

Sometimes, I pick up one of the rocks at home or in my office, hold it, close my eyes, feel its energy, and visualize where I found it. It’s like being there again. The stones are physical representations that, like personal journals, pull up beautiful memories stored in my mind, body, and heart.

Two small rocks from Iona

If we think about it, we have much in common with rocks. We are physical representations of all the memories and experiences we embody. Also, when people are around us, we “pull up” all the memories our physical presence evokes in them. For example, when I am with my friends, I immediately light up because of all the dear memories they evoke. We are like a walking set of rocks that, when encountered, take those in our midst back to all the sacred times shared. They are like a walking set of stones for us; they are “souvenirs” of all the places and times we shared. When we hold, cherish, and become present with them, we feel their souls and remember.

Lark and I will have dinner tonight with one of our favorite “rocks,” Janet. She has been a dear friend for decades, whose presence in our lives makes many beautiful memories. She is truly a physical representation of a precious spiritual energy. We will “rock out” with her tonight and make more memories.

Inquiry: How are you someone’s souvenir?

Dear God,

I am so grateful for the mineral and living reminders of what is sacred to me. Amen

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