“All arts are derived from
the breath that God breathed into the human body.”
~Hildegard of Bingen, 12th-century mystic
Watercolor by ~liz
Recently, I attended a Health System Values in Action Award Celebration for caregivers. The facilitator welcomed our honored guests by sharing the Miriam-Webster definition of inspiration. As the afternoon progressed we were all inspired by the passionate expressions of these caregivers of Light.
Definition of Inspiration:
- A divine
influence or action on a person believed to qualify him or her to receive
and communicate sacred revelation
- The action or power of moving
the intellect or emotions
- The act of influencing or
suggesting opinions
- The act of
drawing in; specifically the drawing of air into the
lungs
I love
this definition and the connection made to breathing. When I pay attention
to this act of breathing, of inspiration, it seems to me, that I am in a state
of receptivity. This gift, freely given is one I do not have to think about or attempt
to control.
When we focus our energy on consciously breathing
in and out we begin to experience a calming effect in the rise and fall of our
chest. In the receiving and giving back, we surrender to life's natural rhythms.
In
contemplative prayer, breathing is a doorway into communion
with the divine. It is in this quiet space of listening and through the breath
of life that we begin to connect with our source. The effects of mindfulness are
revitalizing and healing. As we become still we connect with God’s Love. The stillness
is not a withdrawal from life but instead inspires us to reach out to others
with compassion. According to Franciscan, priest Richard Rohr, “Those who
connect with God’s love are compelled to take action, and are motivated by love
to try and bring about social justice."
Awakening means, “Keeping your heart and mind space open long
enough for the mind to see other hidden material. Our rational mind judges,
controls and analyzes instead of seeing, tasting and loving. This is exactly
why it cannot be present in the naked now. The mind … loves to process
things. The key to stopping this game is, quite simply, peace, silence or
stillness. This was always seen as
God’s primary language… I would even say that on a practical level, silence
and God will be experienced simultaneously — and even as the same thing.” -Rohr
In loving remembrance of a radiant spirit Christine Sanchez RN, beloved friend and family member of the St. Joseph Home Health Network. Chris is truly an inspiration to us. Through her infinite grace, kind and compassion heart she touched each of our lives in uniquely beautiful ways.
~liz Sorensen Wessel
Journal of Sacred Work 
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