Mystical Triads 40-42

Three Brief Poems for the Holiday of Thanksgiving

Three ways to cultivate a grateful life:

• Count your blessings, no matter how big or small, and make a point to savor them always;

• Cultivate trust and generosity, as characteristics of a commitment to live a mystical life;

• Pray again and again the immortal words of George Herbert: “Thou that hast given so much to me, give one thing more, a grateful heart.”

Blessings available to everyone, no matter how difficult one’s life might be:

• The ability to choose, if only just to choose an attitude shaped by gratefulness rather than bitterness;

• The ability to hope, resilient and persevering in the trust of a God-given better tomorrow;

• The ability to bless, offering words of kindness and praise and love to others, spreading love even in circumstances where love seems far away.

Three ways to be especially thankful for the mystical life:

• Gratitude for the love and grace of God, freely given and always available regardless of the circumstances at any moment;

• Gratitude for the ability to love others, regardless of their life situation and “worthiness” (or lack thereof) to receive lovingkindness;

• Gratitude for the flow of time, creating space for trust and hope and room for miracles to surprise us in ever-new and unexpected ways.

My latest Mystical Triads for you (click this link to see the previous triads). These short contemplative verses are inspired by an ancient Welsh poetic form that offer insight into history, mythology, and wisdom. Inspired by the wisdom of the mystics, these “Mystical Triads” invite us to consider how we can embody contemplative insight in our lives today.

Triads 40-42 are my gift to you in honor of the USA Holiday of Thanksgiving which takes place this year on Thursday, November 27. Obviously I’m inspired by George Herbert but also by Brother David Steindl-Rast, whose ministry is shaped by an appreciation for (and promotion of) gratitude. No matter what your life circumstances might be, I hope your heart will touch the grace of gratitude this holiday season… and always.

With love,
Carl

Celtic Clip art by Cari Buziak; see more of her amazing work at www.aon-celtic.com. Cornucopia image: Shutterstock.