“The book of Proverbs attests to the importance of having loyal friends of good reputation – and listening to their advice. Today’s verse says, ‘The wise listen to advice.’ ‘Wisdom is found in those who take advice’ (13:10).” –Nancy Thomas, Fruit of the Vine

Query: What friends have influenced your discernment of God’s will?

Requiem

The redwood tree in the garden

turned brown suddenly. It is

being cut down today, eliminated,

disposed of, no trace left.

Tomorrow the empty space will be filled

and only a few will remember its shade,

its sturdiness, its hope.

Day after tomorrow no-one will notice.

At least today I will honor with

this requiem the gift it has been,

the sorrow we all feel.

–Carol Bialock, Coral Castles