1) to extract (information) from various sources
2) to collect
gradually and bit by bit
 
 synonyms:  gather, collect, pick up
the gleaners, the creation of Jean-Francois Millet, 
is a reflection
  of the book of Ruth 
and often
  referred to as a hymn of labor. 
 | 
 
 Ruth tells the story of a woman gleaning fields 
 for sustenance and the long ago practice
by wealthy landowners to instruct the reapers 
to leave behind
  bits of grain during harvest time 
to assist those in need. 
on my bleak grey
  days i feel in need. 
after the doubt,
  despair, pity and tears are over, I get quiet. 
it is then i can
  hear a still small voice inviting me 
to gather up
  beauty, creativity, and simplicity to sustain me. 
 | 
 
a friend has
introduced me to the book: the artist's rule, 
by Christine
Valters Paintner. 
i bought a copy
& will make a summer study of it, 
but summer is a
few months away 
and i need the
kindness of this author now.  
so i have been
opening the book up, bit by bit, 
and  collecting some goodness to nourish my soul.
Jane Redmont
writes this recommendation of the book:  
"Monastic
practices are not just for monks;
living a creative
life is not just for professional artists.
Christine Valters
Paintner teaches us these truths as a wise, 
gentle guide who
knows when to speak and when to get out 
of the way.
 With her help, we open ourselves to the Mystery
at the heart of
life, and in so doing come to know ourselves 
more
deeply and to bring forth gifts for others."
Those who go
out weeping carrying seed to sow
will
return with songs of joy carrying sheaves with them.
Psalm 126

No comments:
Post a Comment