Nouwen on Icons
Icons...have imprinted themselves so deeply on my inner life that they appear every time I need comfort and consolation. There are many times when I cannot pray, when I am too tired to read the gospels, too restless to have spiritual thoughts, too depressed to find words for God, or too exhausted to do anything. But I can still look at these images so intimately connected with the experience of love.
[Henri Nouwen]
[Henri Nouwen]
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3 comments:
These words resonate deeply with me. It's all about making the connection- keeping the connection open.
I believe music acts as an icon, certain instruments, certain ryhthms...what are your thoughts?
There are many times I turn to music when I know I'm beyond being able to meditate or be still-and the music centers me.
The Orthodox view icons not as mere paintings, but as "windows into heaven." Sounds like you're getting blessed and refreshed as you take a peek!
I love icons, too.
I adore Nouwen, and am so glad to see somebody make mention of him.
A general observation: In the last sentence the key is the association (or at least I read it that way)... which reminds me of stuff from a book called "Unlimited Power." There's something to be said for first understanding associations. And then with the understanding, to work with, use, change them...
A personal comment: Nouwen's comment reminds me of one of the things I most cherish about Mass... its familiarity provides a framework for whatever else might need to happen. When I am too tired, too restless, too depressed, too exhausted...
Wonderful reminders, thank you for sharing the quotation.
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