"Always we begin again." This is the story of my life, perhaps yours too? You start out strong and then life happens? I've just come through one of the hardest times in my life. I originally began posting in 2019. It is now the summer of 2020. I am beginning again. Reposting. This year my elderly husband suffered major health issues and I've had to make huge decisions, downsize, move to a condo etc. etc. Lots of emotions! The dust is settling and I'm excited to return to my passion, Lady Godiva. "Always we begin again" was taught by St. Benedict...and Godiva supported them in in day. So encouraging that we can always have a "re-do"
So in the first 30 posts, you may see differences...like this one, originally written on a snowy day. LOL.
"I, Lady Godiva, am an old woman now. The last days of my life and I wish to live fully. Despite the protests of my companion Brother Thoma, I walk barefoot across the cool wet grass tickling my toes like the tongues of kittens." Imagine our surprise when Edy translated this letter. While most of her letters tell Godiva's story, every once in a while we find a letter where she shares her day and her heart. They are almost devotional. And they bless me. I hope they bless you.
Most of Godiva's secrets will be about her life, her loves, her allies and enemies, and how she lived as a female leader in her time. While Edy and I are getting those in order, I thought I would share a few that seem more reflective.
On this cold snowy day I write from Iowa. We just got six inches of snow, piled on the base of several inches last week. The wind is blowing and drifts pile up on my shoveled driveway and sidewalks. The schools are closed and I'm tucked away in my studio, with coffee and lava-cake truffles, trying to figure out how to best present the letters with the blog.
But you my my darling Go-DIVAS may need a touch of spring as I do. We need to remember there are bulbs planted deep in the earth, under the mounds of snow, waiting to burst forth. Such it is with your gifts and your authentic self. All you need is within you. There is color, music, talent, voice waiting to be birthed, in their season. Enjoy this little "truffle" Edy sent me. Stay warm, you are loved,
VickiJolene
Dearest One,
I am an old woman now. The last days of my life and I wish to live fully. Despite the protests of my companion Brother Thoma, I walk barefoot across the cool wet grass tickling my toes like the tongues of kittens.
I pause, feeling the earth, a spongy nest for these dry brittle bones. A moist life travels up into my body. A surge of hope of the promise of life.
I look over my garden tucked away as a secret indulgence. A well carved bench awaits, yet I prefer sitting, perched on a large round smooth stone. A gift from a beloved friend. How he bragged of the pinks and grays of his homeland, bringing me such a rock, much as my own dog Wuffa would lay a poor rabbit at my feet.
With the brush of a hand, all the love of that friendship returns. Such it is with all around me. Lovely simple gifts, from friends knowing my love for my garden. Flowers from afar.
The sun warms my shoulders, the earth cools my feet as I enjoy the winking and nodding flowers. Perhaps God is teasing me to laugh and enjoy these last days.
Flowers spread before me as jewels. Rubies, Sapphires, Amethyst. Shades of Amber and Emerald. Each petal sparkles with morning dew, like a child playing in the pond, tossing her head, splaying water with no cares.
Though others would crave gold and silver, and cover themselves with the stones so valued, I never so desired.
I leave my perch, walking the emerald path, reach out, caressing the jewels of heaven.
The sun rises, the heat of the day upon us. Brother Thoma takes my soaked flower-fill fist, insisting I return to my bed. He insists I need rest.
Oh that he and others would come to discover the secret power of uniting with all God has created. Oh that he and others would come to discover the secret power of the rainbow infused garden. Oh that he and others would come to discover the secret power of a fully lived life rather than a life that is full.
My dearest, are you finding yourself drained? A very full demanding life you live, always within the court. How will you discover the secrets of a life fully lived? Do you have a place for a garden tucked away, a secret place to rest in her jeweled offerings? How long has it been since you let your feet touch the soil, the soft grass, the coolness of a pond or river?
A young person can become old and brittle before her time. The secrets God provides will keep you forever young.
Blessings,
Countess Godiva
Evesham, 1065
Nature is powerful in so many healing ways. Are you getting outside? Do you have a place where you feel connected with the comfort of flowers? Do you ever take off your shoes and walk in the grass? That might be impossible for you. What have you found is an alternative?
Photo credit: Raymond Hui-6839 at unsplash.com
Comments