Where attention goes, energy flows. 

   A corollary might be: We are what we worship.

   As soon as we worship anyone or anything it becomes sanctified in our minds. The subject takes on otherworldly powers. We feel differently in that subject's presence. 

   Watch devout Catholics as they kneel before a statue of the Virgin Mary. Consider how Muslims entering the Blue Mosque react to its calligraphy. Notice the eyes of Jews touching the Wailing Wall. 

   Some worship mortals. Teenagers scream in the presence of music stars. Others faint before Presidents & Popes.

   We worship the well-known so passionately that we want pictures with them – as if their stardust might might illuminate us.

   An awed silence inhabits crowds viewing the Mona Lisa. In fact, we fall silent in places "sanctified" by culture: courtrooms, churches, museums.  Hospices have joined this group. Because we see the dying as different, we adopt a "worshipful" presence before them.

   Somehow, art transcends its context. A Jew or Hindu who cares nothing about Christianity can appreciate Da Vinci's "Last Supper." A Christian can "worship" the beauty in a Shinto Shrine.

   We are what we worship. Worship kindness & experience its energy. Appreciate a sacred shine & feel peace. Seek to heal the wounded & feel healing. Worship cruelty & your spirit will suffer. 

   Most universal of all "worshiped" art? Flowers.

   On May 15, my sister placed flowers from my mother's funeral in a blue vase. Here they are: innocent, beautiful & worthy of a moment's worship.

-Erie Chapman

Photo: "When She Is Gentle," by erie