(Photo: “Roots of the Forest” by Jerzy from Pixabay)

By Sister Michele Morek

My first meeting with the California redwoods was in the John Muir Woods outside of San Francisco. Several subsequent experiences with them were no less awe-inspiring, but that first impression of being in God’s temple – in a holy place – has not been matched. Walking in their shade, among gigantic cathedral columns pointing to the heavens, was a holy encounter.

In later meetings with the redwoods (since I had already embraced the religious part of the experience!) I allowed my “inner scientist” to rise to the surface. One thing that really intrigued me was how many redwoods seemed to form a circle with nearby trees, as if they were holding hands dancing. That was not far off the mark – actually they were “holding roots!” There was a network of roots interwoven and overlapping with those of nearby trees. A ranger explained that for such tall trees with a shallow root system, “holding hands” strengthens them against strong winds and soggy soils that might cause them to topple.

Later I saw a greeting card with a picture of the interlacing roots, with a quote from Mary-Cabrini Durkin. She is a friend who left the Cincinnati Ursulines after 41 years to bring a secular institute of consecrated women – the Company of Saint Ursula – to the United States. She and her companions still follow a life based on the rule and founding principles of Saint Angela. She wrote:

Each one of us embraces the Rule, following its guidance in her own home and parish and work, singly. But not alone. The fact that others are faithful is a great strength and encouragement. United spirit and practice create an unseen circle of which we are, each and all, a part, even when we are apart.

Surely Mary-Cabrini must have had the words of Angela Merici in mind: “Be united in heart and will … mutual love and harmony between you are a sure sign that you are on the right path.” (Angela Merici, Tenth Legacy)

That advice, and the image of the interlacing redwood roots can apply to the relationship among all of our Ursuline Sisters and Associates – or for that matter, to any group of supportive relationships.

• How do you experience the support of people in your relationship circles?
• How does that support help you to “stand tall?”
• What manifestation of nature spoke to your heart this week?