Wednesday of the Fourth Week

Readings

Sg 2:8-14
Ps 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21
Lk 1:39-45

Reflection

The readings for today have a very joyful and happy tone- “For see, the winter is past, the rains are over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of pruning the vines has come, and the song of the dove is heard in our land.” Now is the time to rejoice, now is the time to see the beauty and wonder in the world.

I’ve always loved to be outside and appreciate the complexity and simplicity that nature has to offer. To sit on Sunset Cliffs and just watch the waves roll in, or hike Torrey Pines to watch the sunset, or just sit in Balboa Park to read a book, I have always found peace and happiness in nature. I like to use this season of Advent to reflect on this past year and how I can improve in my faith life and personal growth for the coming year. I think about how I can continue to be a good steward of this beautiful earth that we are temporarily using and enrich it for future generations.

As I think about future generations, I reflect on one of the biggest blessings of this year with the birth of my nephew in March. To watch my older sister, whom I’ve always admired, grow even stronger and be such a gentle mother is more amazing than I can describe. The Gospel describes Mary’s visit to her cousin Elizabeth to announce her pregnancy. When my sister told me and my family that she was pregnant, we were all overcome with happiness and joy. My nephew has truly been a blessing and I am looking forward to watching him grow up to be a kind, respectful, intelligent, loving human.

It is beauty of nature and pure wonder of new life that keeps me striving to be better. It pushes me to continue growing. It makes me reflect on my actions and interactions with others. It brings me joy. It brings me closer to my faith. 

-Paula Morreale '09, Sustainability Coordinator, Office of Sustainability