As soon as I started reading the lyrics, the melody came back, and then Elvis. I hadn't gone there in many years. And then I found that I couldn't just read the lyrics, but had to sign them in my head. That's how haunting these words are.

I have been approached by only two members of the Community who took exception to my remarks on March 13. I have been made aware that others were perturbed, but I have not heard from them. One member was kind enough to engage in some email conversation. In the midst of that exchange, it occurred to me that what I was suggesting on Sunday was that while we are "open and welcoming," both in writing and in our space, the LGBTQ+ community would benefit greatly if we could less passive, that is, more public in our mission to be inclusive. I was told by a Friend of the Community who is gay that when some people see a rainbow flag, they immediately think "sanctuary," a safe place. I think we ought to go there. A flag over our door is one thing; a flag on our web page is another. As I was reminded by a friend on Sunday afternoon, we are the only "Catholic" community around that has ever flown the flag, and the only one that has ever witnessed a same sex marriage. If we are there already, and we are precisely what many folks are looking for, why aren't our colors out there now?

I really appreciate the conversation among members. Thanks Tony for inviting more comment.

I wish we got to choose what we have to let go of.

Of all the literature that was offered to me after Jean's death, this is the one that continues to speak clearly, perhaps because loving and losing never cease. They are among the most profound moments of my life.

Eileen, let your feet speak. We are delighted they have brought across our threshold recently, and hope your feet have more to say to our hearts. If we are all "held to Earth," we will all be in touch with God. I pray that our conversation will continue to show us the way forward.

A powerful description Mike. I like it a lot.

At first glance, it looks as though Jesus is doing the butterfly, a fast and beautiful stroke. But then I paused and noticed that the figure is bent forward, taking in his reflection. Imagine. He might have been looking at a 30 year-old about to set out on his own, telling stories, challenging the status quo, inviting change, all in the breeze of the Spirit.

Reasons and proofs are never the final word. But they do offer some assurance that we got this far with enough confidence to keep on going. The next part of the trip could take us deeper into the "maybe."