Claiming Our Belonging

 “Our belonging is rooted in the living body of Earth, woven of the flows of time and relationship that form our bodies, our communities, our climate… When we turn and open our heart-mind to Earth, she is always there. This is the great reciprocity at the heart of the universe.”

A Wild Love for the World, Joanna Macy 

Early this morning I woke from a chaotic dream that began with the search for a lunchtime tuna sandwich.  I was working in a busy downtown area, and many people were out and about. I discovered a food court, and found someone making sandwiches. As I waited for my order, I began to talk to two people standing on either side of me. One was a young boy, and the other was an adult male. Both had large and elaborate models of futuristic cars, and both were quite excited. I thought the cars were rather odd looking, and not very practical. For one thing, neither car had a roof or a hood, but did have what appeared to be engines with many hoses and valves.  Actually, I don't even think the cars had doors, but they did at least have a single seat for the driver and a steering wheel.  

I bought my sandwich, said my good-byes, and left. There was a band playing just outside the food court. I knew I was running late, but I stopped to listen. On the ground in front of the musicians (maybe a quartet?), there was a wooden instrument, kind of a cross between a flute and an oboe without a reed. I thought it was lovely. One of the members said, "Take it; it is yours."  I picked it up, but woke before I tried to play it. 

Yet, perhaps I heard it in Joanna Macy's quote. I am reminded that the heart of the universe  is everywhere, and we are part of it. Yes, our love can and does run that deep. We are connected. Even when we think we do not want to be.           

     

image: The photograph that is attached was taken in May at the Nacimiento Campground in the Los Padres National Forest. A beautiful creek runs nearby. If you go, definitely look for the creek, the tree with a heart (a good reminder that they all have one) and definitely bring mosquito repellent. The mosquitos we noticed fairly soon after we got out of the truck. The heart in the tree Tyler noticed the next morning.  

 

       

    

   

"God, Spirit of all goodness and love, open within us quiet places where fear cannot dwell. Help us to create spaces and opportunities for others to know and experience your loving presence and grace."     

Franciscan Action Network, June 16, 2026