My introduction to the writings of St. Teresa of Avila came from a Buddhist friend. She had recently moved to live and work at a retreat center in Dutchess County, New York after two decades living in busy Brooklyn and Manhattan.
After sharing photos of the bucolic beauty that enriches her daily routines, she let slip that in her quiet time, she was reading works by the Carmelite Nun and mystic, St. Teresa of Avila.
What??? That was my immediate reaction and response.
But I was also curious.
What about the Catholic monastic traditions of a 16th century nun appealed to a modern woman seeking Zen enlightenment? I do not have answers. Nor should I have! As I read the words of St. Teresa, I quickly let go of my limited thinking and judgements.
My friend is on her own journey of growth and discovery.
What I do know is that I too can learn from the saints who went before on the path to a more enriched spiritual life. In Matthew 7, Jesus told the disciples, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” (NIV)
As I seek, I am discovering a God who is opening my eyes to infinite wonder and daily miracles. The journey continues.
I share words of a beautiful poem attributed to St Teresa of Avila for Advent. The translation is by Arthur Symons.
Shepherd, Shepherd, Hark that Calling
Shepherd, shepherd, hark that calling!
Angels they are and the day is dawning.
What is this ding-dong,
Or loud singing is it?
Come Bras, now the day is here.
The shepherdess we’ll visit.
Shepherd, shepherd hark that calling!
Angels they are and the day is dawning.
O, is this the Alcade’s daughter,
Or some lady come from far?
She is daughter of God the Father,
And she shines like a star.
Shepherd, shepherd, hark that calling!
Angels they are and the day is dawning
Shared by Annemarie Edwards