There are no unsacred places; there are only sacred places and desecrated places. ~ Wendell Berry

There are three aspects of nature which command humankind’s attention: power, loveliness, grandeur. Power we exploit, loveliness we enjoy, grandeur fills us with awe. ~~ Abraham Heschel

What do I know? I know this. The only way we will ever learn to stop abusing and exploiting the earth is by learning to fall in love with creation. The earlier we begin this love affair with the natural world, the greater the benefit to the entire earth community. In this poem by the late German theologian, political activist, and feminist Dorothee Soelle, the poet spells out in a few words on five lines the various responses toward nature. In ascending order: indifference, greed,  possessiveness, restraint, awe. It is a poem worthy of LECTIO, especially on Earth Day 2020.  

Five Responses on Seeing a Flower

Ah!
Oh, beautiful — I want it, but I will let it be!
Oh, beautiful — I want it, I will take it!
Oh, beautiful — I can sell it!
So?

by Dorothee Soelle

• Spend some quiet time with this short poem. Hold it as you would behold a flower. May you hear what it has to say to you.

NOTE: I have altered the exact quote of Rabbi Heschel by using inclusive language and plural forms.

PHOTO: Kathy Conzelman. Used with the permission of the artist. SEE Kathy’s work HERE.