While on a retreat in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration Nina Shephard was greeted by a fawn — a moment so moving, she captured it in poetry. "The way the fawn ran to me was very special," shares Sister Nina.
Nurturing Spirit
A little fawn runs between the trees, over the grass
and up the drive straight toward me,
not yet aware it should be afraid.
Two tiny frogs, only an inch long,
hop into the leaves to hide as I pass.
Four squirrels play follow-the-leader up and down
and all around the oak, taking a break
from gathering acorns.
Eight happy children paddle kayaks on the little lake
with a watchful dad.
Ten large black ants make their way about,
doing whatever large black ants do.
Dozens of birds of every kind populate the trees all
around and fill the air with their chatter and songs.
Evidence of the Creator's work is everywhere,
and I rejoice in this marvelous world
that we are working so hard to protect.
