beWARM

I spent yesterday in the company of  amazing women, past and present. During the greater part of the day, I participated in a retreat led by Deborah Douglas, author of The Praying Life:Seeking God in All Things, who lives here in Santa Fe.

An engaging speaker and skilled facilitator, Deborah introduced us to the experience of “praying the Scriptures” – inviting us to place ourselves in the Biblical text itself, identifying with a particular person, and imagining what their thoughts and feelings might have been. 

The title of our retreat was “Also Some Women” – those remarkable figures in the Bible whose quiet presence (well, sometimes not so quiet) and unwavering faith “turned the world upside down”, in Deborah’s words.  Through her expert guidance, we came to know these women more intimately.

Some we already knew well – or so we thought…all of the Marys, of course, and Martha. 

Then, there were the unnamed women who had interactions with Jesus, both sought out and unintentional, who had opportunities to believe in and minister to Him.

Listening to their stories, realizing the courage and strength they possessed, and mentally beaming ourselves back into their lives was an enlightening experience. 

We spent 30 minute segments in silent reflection on the situation/event of a woman of our choice.  I went deep into prayerful thought, totally losing track of where those minutes went. It was both fascinating and edifying. 

From henceforth, the stories of these women will have a whole new meaning for me.  I see them with new eyes, and have deepest admiration for their unwavering faith and devotion.

Then, last evening….Also Some Women, if you will…here and now in New Mexico.  I attended the premier of a movie entitled Letters to Our Daughters,  a real and poignant look at the challenges faced every day by women trying to raise their families.

 Women of various races and color shared their beautiful and heartfelt letters, in hopes of encouraging their daughters to achieve their dreams and make the world a better place.

This event was a benefit for Women Building Community, a program of the New Mexico Community Foundation, and the women featured in the film are a part of this program.  

 These courageous women have made the choice to be good role models for their daughters, and listening to their thoughtful words touched me deeply.  I ached for them as I listened to some of the obstacles they have had to overcome.

For the most part, the mothers encouraged their daughters to seek peace, wisdom, and faith, to make good choices, to get their education,and to set goals ; many expressed their belief and trust in God. 

 Above all, the phrase “We will always be there for you” was a clear and repeated theme.  Such a comfort…and so empowering. I don’t know if this movie will be released at a national level, but I would encourage you to see it if you have the chance. 

Today, in very different ways, I was able to “see” into the lives of women who are love-filled, strong in their convictions, overcoming challenges, and have the courage to affect change.  In my mind, they have been…and are…adding a whole new dimension to being WARM…

I pray for their success…