Where Do You Live?
Some of you may be familiar with the poem by Helen Mallicoat entitled “I AM”. I was recently introduced to it at a Lenten retreat and have found that the deep truth expressed in this poem brings me great comfort when I am distressed. I don’t know about you but I tend to spend a lot of time either focusing on the future or reliving the past. It is during these times that this poem is a helpful reminder.
When I find myself worrying over the future of this country and the world, or when something triggers an unpleasant memory or regret, if I pause and breathe in I AM, my mind and my heart shift to the present moment. And it is in the present moment where I find God with me and I feel more grounded.
It is said that Helen Mallicoat never copyrighted the poem because she considered it a gift from God. I offer this gift to you for your reflection.
I was regretting the past
And fearing the future.
Suddenly my Lord was speaking:
“My name is I Am.” He paused.
I waited. He continued,
When you live in the past
With its mistakes and regrets,
It is hard. I am not there,
My name is not I WAS”.
When you live in the future
With its problems and fears,
It is hard. I am not there.
My name is not I WILL BE.
When you live in this moment,
It is not hard. I am here.
My name is I AM.
May you breath in I AM and remember that God is with you here and now.