Our Cloister Garden This morning, we experienced a brief but gentle rain. Our cloister garden, dark green and vibrant, seemed to come alive, with all the trees and plants looking 'happy'. For nearly 55 years, I have walked through this garden, traveling to and from church. During the day, I often sit and admire its beauty, which never grows old for me. It always feels fresh and new, lifting my spirits each time. Early in the morning, before Vigils, the garden has a different kind of beauty. The sound of rain is one of the most calming sounds for me. The insects sing, adding to the garden's allure. Occasionally, a bullfrog calls out in its deep bass voice, though it never gets a response. I imagine it must be lonely. One morning, I mimicked its call, and it seemed surprised by my response. We exchanged calls for a while, but I stopped, fearing it might ask me for a date. This year, the bullfrog has been silent, perhaps having found a way out of our cloister garden. Beauty is everywhere, though sometimes I pass by without noticing. As I age, I am becoming better at seeing God's beauty in the simplest things. Prayer opens one's heart to the world, people, and nature.-BrMD
