"Vulnerable, Like a Bird"

Life is precious. Not because it is unchange- able, like a diamond, but because it is vulnerable, like a little bird. To love life means to love its vulnerability, asking for care, attention, guidance, and support. Life and death are connected by vulnerability. The newborn child and the dying elder both remind us of the preciousness of our lives. Let's not forget the preciousness and vulnerability of life during the times we are powerful, successful, and popular.

Henri J. M. Nouwen, Bread for the Journey

(Photo from Subiaco Abbey, Subiaco, Arkansas)