By way of an invocation, let me share a poem by Thomas P. Ryan, CSP, entitled “Morning Magic.” So settle back now, picturing yourself at Donner Lake, in the silence that prevails, just before the sun rises, and awakens all creation.
I woke this morning
To the summoning sound
Of an immense stillness
Which held all creation bound.
I quietly left my bed
Stepping softly to the shore,
Afraid to wake the universe.
Asleep before me laid the lake,
Held in the mountain’s firm embrace;
The breeze, too, lay quietly in the wings.
Not daring to mar lady water’s face.
And, while all looked away, awaiting another,
—tell no one of this! —
I woke the world myself,
Diving into the lake, full of bliss
Senators, staff, and guests, may you each “dive” into this new day with bliss and thanksgiving for a Divine Creation, so present around us at this flourishing time of year. May we take the time to honor the beauty and harmony of the Divine Handiwork of Summer, and draw fresh, new energy from it, taking us mindfully through this day.—AMEN.
