"Let us transplant ourselves into the garden of gladness which is the ground of our faith." Albert Q. Perry
Once more the earth turns and we gather to celebrate our good fortune as we enter into the garden of gladness that is the earth.
Commingled with the singing of birds and the breath of wind,
We hear the clamor of war and violence from far-off lands.
From the comfort of our homes we listen to the wail of the injured and the weeping of the bereaved.
Their suffering is all the more poignant as we enjoy the fruits of peace and quietude.
Our anguish is sharpened by the bitter realization there is so little we can do to save them.
Our own traumas of the spirit pale beside their pain.
Yet, we feel at one with them and extend the symbolic hand of friendship as our hearts go out to antagonists in this brutal strife.
On this high holy day of the spirit we seek to renew ourselves
For the work of the world - as gardeners of the spirit.
We would seek to plant seeds of peace as best we can near and far;
We would give gratitude that our garden of gladness is so bountiful;
In the midst of cold we would enjoy the coming warmth of spring;
In the midst of indifference, we would be caring;
In the face of war, we would seek to make peace.
May we ground our faith in the garden of gladness that is ours this Blessed Easter day.
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