It has seemed to me sometimes as though the Lord breathes…
““It has seemed to me sometimes as though the Lord breathes on this poor gray ember of Creation and it turns to radiance - for a moment or a year or the span of a life. And then it sinks back into itself again, and to look at it no one would know it had anything to do with fire, or light … Wherever you turn your eyes the world can shine like transfiguration. You don't have to bring a thing to it except a little willingness to see. Only, who could have the courage to see it? … Theologians talk about a prevenient grace that precedes grace itself and allows us to accept it. I think there must also be a prevenient courage that allows us to be brave - that is, to acknowledge that there is more beauty than our eyes can bear, that precious things have been put into our hands and to do nothing to honor them is to do great harm.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Creation is a fleeting ember that can become radiant when we willingly perceive its beauty, requiring both grace and courage.
In simple terms: Seeing beauty needs willingness and courage.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate openness to wonder.
Themes
spirituality
perception
beauty
courage
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
essay
philosophical
When to use this quote
- meditation
- art appreciation
- personal growth
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
theology
philosophy
existentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- What prevents us from seeing wonder?
- How can we foster prevenient courage?
A Different Perspective
Courage may be lacking, making it hard to notice beauty.