To Bless the Space Between Us (DPDMM 8)

Fr. Tony’s (Nearly) Daily Physical Distancing Message & Meditation 8 

March 27, 2020

To Bless the Space Between Us

I imagine that many of you are like me about now, just beginning to hunker down emotionally into what looks to be a longer-term isolation.  News of increasing infection rates, conflicting accounts of how to best disinfect and stay safe (Should I scrupulously disinfect packages and groceries coming into the house? Or is washing hands, not touching my face, and sanitizing hands enough?), an economic recession teetering on a depression gutting our savings portfolios—it all is unknown territory, an undiscovered country, and we are prone to fear, anxiety, and, God forbid, can lapse into despair.   It is times like these that call us to be all the more intentional in our reaching out to others, even if only by phone, across a 6 foot divide, or by video-conference. 

John O’Donohue, in his book of blessings, To Bless the Space Between Us, writes the following  blessing “For Presence,” which can be held and nurtured even when physically separated: 

Awaken to the mystery of being here
and enter the quiet immensity of your own presence.

Have joy and peace in the temple of your senses.

Receive encouragement when new frontiers beckon.

Respond to the call of your gift and the courage to
follow its path.

Let the flame of anger free you of all falsity.

May warmth of heart keep your presence aflame.

May anxiety never linger about you.

May your outer dignity mirror an inner dignity of
soul.

Take time to celebrate the quiet miracles that seek
no attention.

Be consoled in the secret symmetry of your soul.

May you experience each day as a sacred gift woven
around the heart of wonder.

This is a time for rest and respite.  Do not lose hope.  Wash your hands thoroughly and often.   Stay at home, and keep 6 feet away from others.  Rest, take naps, and cultivate calm and hope in your hearts.  Do not seek to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs in your seclusion.  Care for those you are with, and be gentle to them and to yourself. 

Grace and Peace. 

Fr. Tony+