The word beginning is a descendent of the Old English word onginnan (ca.450-1100) meaning to undertake, to attempt. One of the many meanings given to the word include; To come into existence. Beginnings are endings also, the creative onset after something has broken, dissolved, and has come to a close. Here in the middle of winter, at the endings of more than what we think/know, together, we, begin again. Beginning requires strength, trust and courage. May it be so.
For a New Beginning | John O'Donohue
In out-of-the-way places of the heart, Where your thoughts never think to wander, This beginning has been quietly forming, Waiting until you were ready to emerge. For a long time it has watched your desire, Feeling the emptiness growing inside you, Noticing how you willed yourself on, Still unable to leave what you had outgrown. It watched you play with the seduction of safety And the gray promises that sameness whispered, Heard the waves of turmoil rise and relent, Wondered would you always live like this. Then the delight, when your courage kindled, And out you stepped onto new ground, Your eyes young again with energy and dream, A path of plenitude opening before you. Though your destination is not yet clear You can trust the promise of this opening; Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginning That is one with your life’s desire. Awaken your spirit to adventure; Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk; Soon you will be home in a new rhythm, For your soul senses the world that awaits you.
From Benedictus: A Book of Blessings (Bantam Press 2007)"