My family and I recently discovered a grotto at a Catholic church not far from our home and we’ve taken to visiting as often as we can. I suppose that speaks to how much we crave prayer and answers and quiet these days. Whenever I set foot within this sacred space, the three words that immediately come to mind are beautiful, peaceful, and therapeutic; I could sit there for hours (the picture accompanying this post is from a visit earlier in September). I have yet to pay my respects within the prime of my beloved Autumn, but this is how I imagine it will feel.
Autumn In The Grotto
A deserted footpath stretches ahead of me
Empty but for the ghosts of prayers long past
St. Francis sits at the start, waiting, watching
Will it be salvation … or redemption?
Far in the distance I see only you
A beacon glittering against the rocky slate
Halfway there and the chasm between us diminishes
Evanescing as dusk coaxes the darkness out to play
Hesitantly I approach, wondering what you will say
Eyes closed, heart open, I savor the silence
The clean, crisp currents of Autumn swirl around me
Winds wisping, whooshing; leaves scuttling, crunching
Suddenly all my senses spring to life
A palette of dazzling colors at your feet
A gently gurgling fount, peaceful and steady
The aroma of damp Earth and fresh-cut grass
I settle upon your bench, head bowed in prayer
My lips part to speak, but only my breath escapes
In and out, in and out, how many times I breathe you in
Your tranquility engulfs me, touches my core
My loss for words humbles me, shames me
From the corner of my eye, a flickering candle
Sparking to life within your sheltered hollow
A caress upon my neck, and I know you are there
Draped in Autumnal hues of oranges, reds, browns
The crackling of the flames your voice
The bristling branches of the trees your hands
Beckoning, behooving me to pray
Guide this momma’s capable, yet trembling, hands
Bless this family with happiness, health, and love
Wash away the sins of this world, bring peace to all
I ask these in the name of your Son, Amen
The same words whispered over and over
Nothing more, nothing less
A prayer that is everything but never enough
And yet … I find myself released
My fears surrendered, my spirit becalmed
I am ended where I began
Your faithful servant, Oh Blessed Mother
Rescued and redeemed within your holy haven
The bell tolls and full night drops its cloak
Your trembling tapers gutter and snuff out
It is time I traveled home now
A soul reborn upon the wings of your divinity
Beautiful words. Powerful!
Did I miss the picture?
Thank you, Myrt! Happy you were able to see the picture–it’s such a beautiful place.
Never mind in the pic. I saw it after I posted the comment. I didn’t see it originally. Very pretty. And it DOES look peaceful.