Author: Michael Tino

“Nobody sees a flower – really – it is so small it takes time – we haven’t time – and to see takes time, like to have a friend takes time.” ― Georgia O’Keeffe

Take the time to witness something or someone important today.

I recently saw one of my dearest friends in person for the first time in over 3 years. We’ve stayed in close touch, but the years we’ve been physically apart have been ones of huge difficulty and change for both of us, so I felt some nervousness that we wouldn’t feel as much natural ease together as we used to. But in the very first moment of seeing each other, we both burst out laughing — the strangeness of life and intensity of all we’ve been through coming up in the only way it could, through deeply connective laughter. From that moment on, I knew I had nothing to worry about. To be able to hold heartbreak, pain, and loss together, and to still be able to laugh and revel in the absurdity of it all: that’s a depth and quality of friendship that I feel so lucky to have in my life. -Rose Gallogly (CLF)

Reach out to a friend you haven’t been in touch with in a long time.

The pagan holiday of Imbolc is the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. As the wheel of the year progresses, we celebrate the emergence of new life.

What new life can you celebrate today?

This month, we will focus on the spiritual gifts and struggles of friendship. Think about friendships that have been healthy and important for you.

What are the most important qualities of friendship to you?

I love the hymn, Freedom is Coming (#1035). Liberation can be articulated in in words, actions, and music.  At a time when racial inequality is raging, there is a part of me that clings to the words, “Oh yes I know. Oh yes I know. Freedom is Coming.” With accents and fermatas in the music, this South African tune and words makes freedom and liberation seem so achievable. I desperately want this to be so. -Beth Murray (CLF)

When has a joyful moment lost its glory knowing that we have such a long way to go for true liberation?