In Loving Remembrance of Muriel H. Lawler

The day will come when, after harnessing space, winds, the tide and gravitation, we shall harness for God the energies of love. And, on that day, for the second time in the history of the world, [humanity] will have discovered fire. —Teilhard de Chardin

Richard Rohr offers this wisdom, “God created this evolving universe because God is Love and each of us is God’s gift to the world. Our life purpose is to make a difference in transforming that world. . . .”

The essence of a person’s life experience crystallizes at the end of their life. A person who made trans-formative difference in our world was my Aunt Muriel who lived until age 93.

Her daughter, Ann shared the following remembrance, “Muriel was born in London and grew up in a country home near Watford, England. A teenager in World War II, Muriel helped in the war effort by delivering secret messages to nearby village officials on her bicycle.  She met her late husband, James E. Lawler, Jr. when he was stationed in London with American Forces.  Before long she found herself sailing across the ocean as a war bride. The couple settled in New York City, and raised five children.”

I was surprised to learn of my Aunt’s incredible courage and the hope she carried to restore light in such a dark and frightening time. Just to contemplate how many countless people did their part in small and big ways, in any way that they could, to change the tide of the war and changed history for the betterment of mankind is awe inspiring. We too are called and can find the courage through the inspiration and actions of our parents and ancestors.

The Sorensen’s and the Lawler family both lived on the same block when we (cousins) were growing up and needless to say we shared many coming of age experiences and memories that endure the test of time.

I drew this flower this over the week-end as I reflected on my Aunt Muriel’s life. Her's was a life well lived and a gifting to this world. 

I remember you with a tender fondness and I feel great sadness and yet acceptance; for you, Muriel have succeeded in "harnessing for God the energies of love.”

Liz Sorensen Wessel