“We are gradually losing the art of silence. Of walking down the street lost in our own thoughts. Of closing the door to our rooms and being quiet. Of sitting on a park bench and just thinking. We may fear silence because we fear what we might hear from the deepest parts of ourselves. We may be afraid to hear that “still small” voice. What might it say? Might it ask us to change?” ~ Rev. James Martin, SJ

This was the morning reflection that arrives in my daily email inbox. I have to admit that this was not a problem for me today. I managed to spend almost the entire day in silence, revelling in it. Rather then staying in the noisy city of Lisbon, I escaped to the sea, about 40 minutes  by train from where I was staying – – for just a few euros, I ended up in paradise.

If I were to say what a gift from the sea is for me, I would admit that it soothes my soul. I love hearing the waves crash on the shore and seeing the surf splash up against the rocks. I love the feel of the sand beneath my feet and, in this case, the icy cold water sweep around my ankles.  I love the wind whipping around my curls and making them even more unruly. I love the smell of the sea.  I delight in seeing rainbow bubbles linger on the sand once the waves retreat. The calmness that overtakes me is glorious.  I can move to a place where I do not think about anything – – I just am.  That is a great gift to receive.

When I left the beach in the late afternoon, I felt refreshed and incredibly peaceful.  I sat or walked silently for hours just soaking in every last ounce of beauty that I could. I had not really thought through anything. All the big questions that loom ahead of me remain without answers. This does not  seem to bother me. I am just grateful for the gift of the sea: the silence that soothes the soul

Peace,

Suzanne

Reflection  Questions

Where is your soul “silenced”?

When was the last time you were purposely silent for a few hours?

Prayer

You who formed the sea and all that lives in it also created me. Is that why I love the sea so much? Is it because I recognize the mark of your love on it is also the mark of love on me? Thank you, Creator, for making all things good. Amen.