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We are seeing double lately at Cor Jesu Monastery. Don't worry, our vision is fine but the animals are numerous. For the second time since we have moved here the local family of deer have had one set of twins which we delight in catching a glimpse of. They are just beginning to grow out of their spots and still enjoying those carefree moments of foraging while Mom keeps an eye out for danger. They can keep their heads in the grass eating without a break for up to half an hour. They might be hobbit-deer. They don't seem to worry about where the food is or if the coast is clear because Mom is always nearby. They sense her watchful presence and we've noticed how quickly they attend to her body language as soon as anything different happens. Even long before she snorts or stomps they can discern instantly when she's on higher alert. Would that we all both trusted in God's Providence, and listened as closely for our Guardian Angels, as these little ones with their Mom.
The next treat we had was two rock doves who appeared, of all places, on the cement wall surrounding the refectory's HVAC system only feet from a noisy water pump. This peaceful pair chose to land and nestle close to one another in the place that was not only not photogenic but noisy! Yet they sat there for a long time, even returning to their spot side by side more than once, seemingly un-phased by the fans, motors, and pumps. Perhaps that they had each other and perched close enough to touch provided all the calm they needed. Another lesson: Imagine all the chaos and strife we can live peacefully through, provided we allow God to be close to us and did all we could ourselves to remain close to him.
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