“Our deepest desires thrust us into [the] places of tenderness that come with meaningful human connection. Our deep desires of the heart are about bringing our gifts into the world to make a difference. We are called to move beyond the sphere of self-concern into a dance of mutuality with others where we are invited to believe that our existence makes a difference in the human-animal-nature community.”

— Christine Valters Paintner, PhD The Wisdom of the Body: A Contemplative Journey to Wholeness for Women

Opening reflection chosen and read by Denise P.

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Photos by Sue J.

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This is what I saw when I slowed down.

Thoughtful woman: This image spoke to me as I was walking with so many things on my mind. She helped me to slow down and experience the beauty and peace of the moment.

Photos and reflection by Nancy B.

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Spring Challenge

just try
to hold back tears:
what we love
ends.

just try
to hold back spring:
among discarded dirt,
dried weeds, throw of moss,
clumps of snowdrops raise up
Here I am! Here I am!

cypress knees
like a circle of ancient stones
stand, watch
vine and trunk
weave and dance;
surprise of blooms
halfway to sky
trumpet their sun colored yes.
just stop.

look up.

see the patterns reveal
life
missed in passing;
limbs far from lonely
welcome all to
lift, flit, land,
and again.

Photos and poetry by Amy Webb, March 2017

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I started my walk thinking about the phrase, a dance of mutuality with others, from today’s reflection. Within a few minutes I saw a tree that reminded me of the fact that often times the dance is complicated with turmoil. It is up to us, with the help of time, attention, patience and love to make it trough the turmoil so we can once again see the light and make a positive difference.

Photos and reflection by Denise P.

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I began my walk focused on the “dance of mutuality” as described in the opening reflection.  I walked and danced down Oak Allee off the path onto the grass and was overwhelmed by the beauty and wonder of this late winter day! I stopped to gaze upon a tree — or was it two trees? — intertwined in a beautiful and intricate dance of its own.

The tremendous beauty of the day shouted forth in joy… bright green leaves on blue sky, cool crisp air, early spring flowers… much to celebrate and bring awe. 

And at the same time, there were brown leaves and dead branches aplenty to remind me of the cycles of life and death, rebirth and letting go….

Photos and reflection by Nancy L.