Debra Donnelly-Barton, MA has led pilgrimages, workshops and retreats across the country for several Christian denominations. She has a private practice in Spiritual Direction, which informs all her ministries, emphasizing deep listening with others for whispers of the Spirit. Debra is a seminary trained Spiritual Director with 30 years of experience. Enjoy this poem from Debra Donnelly Barton.
EPIPHANY IN WINGS
I cannot say what epiphany is other than to notice each day shining with its own revelation-uncovering its own wisdom. And I, blessed to be invited to its quiet confession, listen to the wind and water, rain and sunshine— a hymn of earth song.
Yesterday we startled a great blue heron at the river’s edge- or maybe we were startled! Only the soft sound of rising into the air preceded the glorious flight across smooth glassy water. With a single beat of wings, our walk was halted. We were changed. Breath came and then joined the rhythm of soaring. This was our poem, unwritten, but lived.
And sometimes words do come up from silence like the rising heron to meet us in the air-reveal what is true.
Epiphany itself can startle and reveal and invite. I pause long enough each day to notice and record the wings and stars and simple breath of an ordinary day.
– Debra Donnelly-Barton
For more from Debra join us for her Contemplative Writing as Epiphany Retreat.