Brother Richard

Breathing out, we dwell in the awareness of the out-breath.

Breathing in, I recognize that I receive my breath as gift from all creation.

Breathing out, I recognize that I am part of creation, sharing my breath with all.

And as we breathe now, we can take a moment to consider the teaching of St.

Francis, that in fidelity to purpose,

The animals often exceed even human beings for they fulfill the purpose of their being.

Whereas we often get lost in our mind, lost in distraction and fail to fulfill that purpose as cleanly as they do.

And so for a moment in the quiet of your heart,

I invite you to bring to mind an animal that you are close to.

It might already have left this earth.

It might still be with us.

But simply to take a moment to draw it before your mind's eye.

It might be a fleeting encounter that you had on one occasion.

or a companion that was part of your family.

But simply rest in the awareness of its presence, at least in thought.

Begin to see how that being is present always to the present moment.

Recognize the gift that it offers

of inviting you into the animal experience of your being, your body, your breath, always in the present moment.

But so often our mind and our hearts can be elsewhere.

Draw yourself back now into the joy of encounter with the animal.