May you quietly await the movement of grace,
and when it comes move gently
with humility, fidelity, and courage.
Quietly Await, Joanne Gallagher, CSJ, ©1976
Based on Maxims of the Little Institute, #84
Based on Maxims of the Little Institute, #84
This is not the exact translation of Maxim 84 but it is what has become quite popular among the Boston Sisters of St. Joseph and Associates. As many readers know, these words are the refrain for the song, Quietly Await, that I wrote quite a few years ago. Writing this song was, in itself, a true moment of God's grace which continues to humble and amaze me.
"Maxim Monday" is taking a "summer break." When I thought about a Maxim for moving into summer, this version of Maxim 84 seemed appropriate. So I offer it for summer reflection. The last of the four verses is also part of my summer prayer for all of us:
To be a healing presence, for this you are called forth
to offer strength through gentleness
toward all whose lives you touch.
Last Saturday, I had the opportunity to spend several hours sitting quietly on one of the porches of St Joseph Retreat Center in Cohasset. The sailboat above was one of many that passed grace-fully by on what was an idyllic day. Happy Summer. May you have a few graced moments during the weeks ahead.
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