Podcast

  " Peace be with you." – John 20:19 

While viewing places of interest for our next Day Trip, I thought of  country settings, with trees, wildflowers and wildlife.

I remembered quiet places for silence and reflection. 

My family and I recently visited a prayer garden in Kerrville.  On that awesome hillside, we were surrounded by blue skies and impressive sculptures.

Another special place off a scenic drive is Mount Schoenstatt.

https://www.mountschoenstatt.org/

“Silence. It is with silence that they speak.” We sat across the table. His wife sat next to him. While Alejandro’s wife chatted with the person on her left, I engaged in conversation with him. Between bites of the chili rojo (red chile) homemade tamales, rice and beans, we shared stories. 

 On hearing that my abuelitos were born in the state of Michoacan, Mexico, he smiled, remarking that I am descended from the strong and beautiful Purépecha whose magnificent artwork is renowned and still flourishes. His knowledge of indigenous cultures was evident as we touched on faith, culture, and pre-colonial struggles. 

We spoke about the splendor of the Michoacan butterflies who migrate north the same time each year, and then find their way back to their natural habitat. I shared that some of my poetry reflects the history and wisdom of my ancestors.

All around us, men and women were engaged in their own quiet conversations. We, a community of faith, were enjoying the first social gathering in a long time.

“Silence. It is with silence that they speak.” He had responded to my regrets because my mother and abuelita kept mostly silent about their lives. I wish I had learned more from them. But I grew in their faith and love. They greeted each day in praise for the Creator, worked hard, and went about their days…welcoming others with quiet hospitality, Ultimately, I know that in their ‘silence’, I received a rich legacy.

Like the caterpillar spinning its cocoon quietly , never forgetting its origin nor its purpose,  and who emerges as a beautiful butterfly.

Note:    

Mary Olivia Patiño is a poet and writer. She has published two books. Find her on Barnes & Noble, 

amazon.com, and other book distributors.