As the gorgeous, blessed leaves, make their way onto the ground to (joyfully) become compost for new life, I find myself slowing, turning inward, for the silent nourishment I so love in the holy darkness of this time of year – the darkness that envelops me in my morning prayers and meditations. It reminds me that all is well for all eternity is right there sitting with me. I need nothing more.
And I am reminded of a beautiful story from the Tao…
A traveler through the mountains came upon an elderly gentleman who was busy planting a tiny almond tree. Knowing that almond trees take many years to mature, he commented to the man, “It seems odd that a man of your advanced age would plant such a slow-growing tree!” The old man replied, “I like to live my life based on two principles: One is that I will live forever. The other is that this is my last day.”
In the holy darkness, I am happy knowing I will live forever – in each one of those sweet present moments – for I am finite and infinite, human and divine. The tiny almond tree reminds me that my only job is to relax and be so that God may do. It reminds me that I need not effort for the hand of God is busy sculpting me in blessed ways I know not. It reminds me to breathe, more slowly, so I may remember that I am breathed, tendered and lovingly held by the holy One, right there, in the sweet darkness.
May we each become more like the tiny almond tree…and live forever…today.
Reverend Stephanie's Blog 
Yes, to “relax and be”, for it is in this state of ease that I can connect to who I already am. There is a quiet sense of peace and fulfillment here and I smile just knowing it. Thank You.
This both/and (“finite and infinite, human and divine”) is the power behind all understanding in this, my human, form. Simply to hold darkness in sweetness and sacred holiness is a fine reminder as we approach our months of deeper darkness! Peace and Thanks.
Wonderful. 🙂