I have a few colleagues who invite others into times of sharing or sacred spaces with this invitation:
“If it blesses you …”
For the longest time, I could not wrap my head around what they were inviting.
“If it blesses you…”
I am still determining its significance. Nonetheless, it implies that if sharing your experience or engaging in a sacred ritual brings you joy or fosters peace, you are invited to be part of this sacred moment. It enables individuals to participate freely without pressuring or coercing others into actions they might not desire.
I love it, though.
“If it blesses you…”
Two years ago, as my cherished Golden Dog, Chloe, was transitioning from this life, I initiated a new practice. Each morning during my prayers, I offered thanks for Baptism and blessed the dogs. I never checked with Cump or Chloe to see if my blessing would resonate with them, yet they always stayed close! This little ritual—reminding me of the Incarnation as the Divine’s affirmation for all creation—was my way of expressing gratitude during her last days: “You have enriched my life with joy, peace, hope, and love throughout our 10.5 years together. You bless me.” She was good. She was a blessing.
I admire what Irish priest and poet John O’Donohue said about blessings when he said, “A blessing is a circle of light drawn around a person to protect, heal, and strengthen. Life is a constant flow of emergence. The beauty of a blessing is its belief that it can affect what unfolds.” Reflecting on those who bless me, I can’t help but feel how they reveal a profound love within me. I question whether this is indeed the essence of a blessing. Once more, I think of O’Donohue’s words, “When you bless someone, you truly activate the force of their infinite self.” Isn’t that what we mean when we say to others, “You are a blessing in my life?”
“If it blesses you…”
When I say my morning prayer, I continue to bless the dogs. This ritual deepens my sense of interdependence with everything around me, pulling me into a sacred space where joy can flourish.
Advent is when we prepare for the arrival of Love’s ‘YES’ to everyone – because everything belongs. Today, take a moment to bless others and receive blessings in return. Learning to embrace joy is a vital practice within the spiritual journey. It reinforces our faith in God, highlights the magnificence of creation, and solidifies our reliance on the Divine. It acknowledges the present's beauty and expresses our assurance in a beautiful future. It also recognizes God's mercy and love.
Of course, if it blesses you to do so…
If it blesses you
take off your shoes, breathe deeply
what's hidden is joy.
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