Saturday after Ash Wednesday
Today I was in the Galilee Spirituality Centre near Boyle for a Lenten Retreat Day. I am thankful to all who attended and to the staff there for making me feel so welcome.
In travelling there, I knew I’d pass “The Gaelic Chieftain” – that wonderful and striking monument of the Chieftain on horseback overlooking the Curlews and all who travel the Dublin-Sligo road. It’s a very impressive piece of work and Maurice Harron, who sculpted it, is an old family friend (of whom I don’t see enough!!)
I mentioned the monument and its function as landmark. A reminder to all who see it that they are on a familiar stretch of road and to all, from the area, who see it that there is something of home on display. I believe in the power of a landmark to make us feel secure and at home. They speak to us, even at a distance, of what is known and valuable to us.
The thought … be thankful for all who are “landmarks” in your life. Those people who give you a sense of home. Furthermore, that we become aware of those for whom we may well be landmarks and take our role, in that regard, to heart.
