Mary in the Morning

in celebration of the Nativity of the Blessed Mother

Mary in the morning
is the dance of dappled light
and clover swaying
underneath the trees
Ever mindful Mother
Who holds me through the night
kisses Earth awake
with a gentle breeze

Mary in the morning
is Hope deep in my heart
As darkness falls away
I may perceive
the goodness and the beauty
as She gifts me with Her Sight
Her tenderness
my sorrow does relieve

Mary in the morning
makes the murky clear
She sweeps away
the heaviness and haze
She reveals the truth within me
whenever She draws near
All fear and falseness melts
at Her dear gaze

Mary in the morning
clothes me with Her power
to live the calling of
the Christed Way
Her Love for every moment
Her Strength for every hour
Her Grace; the Gift
of Every Earthly Day.

~Cheryl Anne Maris

Although my spirituality has meandered and expanded throughout my life, I still hold tremendous affection for the Blessed Mother, as I have experienced Her presence in my heart. That presence, in an instant, displaces all my cynicism, doubt, and requirements of rationality. It has been my experience since childhood, and is still my belief, that She belongs to Everyone, and Everyone belongs to Her. It's pretty easy to look at our world and know that we are in desperate need of a Loving Mother; be that literal or archetypal. 
I took this photo just minutes ago, of the miniature grotto in my room. It's across from my bed. Whatever the day before held, it's such a comforting feeling to wake up and see Mary in the morning, and to begin anew. The grotto is made of bits and pieces which represent my family and beloved friends; all under Her watchful care. I don't think it's necessary, or even healthy, to outgrow the need for comfort, gentle beauty, and grace. Quite the contrary, I believe that a movement towards a posture of greater vulnerability and tenderheartedness might be the medicine we all need in this moment of human history.  Much love and gentlest blessings to All.