Apr 27, 2025

Living in Unconditional Love (215)

 

“Love flows from God to humans without effort:

As a bird glides through the air without moving its wings-

Thus, they go wherever they wish united in body and soul,

Yet separate in form.”

–Mechtild of Magdeburg

 

My wife Eileen died from esophageal cancer in February 2020 one year after being diagnosed, 60 years after we met on Long Island. Then my brother Tom became ill (not COVID), and I spent a total of six weeks being with him in Ohio, but he died in October 2020. My sister-in-law Sue Mahoney died from Covid-19 in January 2021. On top of it all stood the pandemic, locking everyone down almost two years. Covid has proved to be a persistent problem, and many of the long-term effects are quite serious, and it has proven much more serious than flu.

04/27/2025                             This has truly been a mixed week. Easter was a great time, spending time with my daughter Barb and the extended Rogers family on Long Island Easter afternoon. Then on Monday the news that Pope Frances died took the wind out my sails as I truly respected his leadership of the Catholic church. The response of most of the world’s leaders to that event filled the week, culminating in the funeral on Saturday, a spectacular event that held much of the world enthralled.

The events around the death of the pope were generally positive and moving. Thousands lined up to view the casket, and it was moving to see all the love poured out upon him. His successor has big shoes to fill, and it will be interesting to see how the church positions itself in the divided and tense events that are happening in the world.

It was great to see all those at the party on Easter. I really enjoy that time, as that is one of the few times I can meet and chat with them. Most of the family was present, and the organization was, as always, impressive. Eggs were stuffed, then hidden around the gardens by the “masked” (bunny noses and ears were a must), then the search, followed by wonderful meal furnished by everyone. There were over a dozen different hot dishes plus salad and rolls, a feast for all. The traffic was more of a challenge than usual going out as several accidents had occurred and the return trip was as expected, slow and creeping for much of it.

It was decided I should not be driving for any distance, so Tim took me down to Liberty where we met Barbara, and the return was similar. I get sleepy due to the heart meds I take that make long drives a challenge.

The daffodils are at their peak, and much color is everywhere. The deer committed more damage than usual, and I heard the cold weather over the winter took a toll on the deer as it was difficult for them to find forage. I started the mower, and it kicked right over despite not having been run since being serviced in December, so all is ready to start the summer task of mowing.

Meditation

Gentle One, the world is in Your hands. Guide us and lead us in a direction that fulfills Your will and help us to see the gentleness required for the poor and suffering at this time. I bow before You and know that You will guide us forward to that end where Your kingdom on earth comes to fulfillment.