Category Archives: Thomas Merton

The Blessings of Solitude

Posted on April 26, 2020 by Don Watkins

There’s a difference between loneliness and solitude. In this time of social distancing it is easy to become lonely and there are many folks who no doubt are starved for human contact. Fortunately I am not alone in this time. … Continue reading →

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Where is it all going?

Posted on March 27, 2020 by Don Watkins

In the past two weeks I’ve found myself wondering where will this end? How much suffering will we have to endure. Many have endured too much already. Pope Francis has led two worldwide prayer times and so have countless others. … Continue reading →

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A walk in the woods

Posted on March 22, 2020 by Don Watkins

Yesterday afternoon I went for a walk in the woods. I was on an old trail that used to be the haunt of four wheelers and snowmobiles. I don’t think its used much anymore. It was just what I needed … Continue reading →

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A Franciscan in Blue Jeans

Posted on October 22, 2013 by Don Watkins

Just yesterday, my friend Br. Kevin showed me a flyer detailing an event occurring soon on the campus of St. Bonaventure University. Fr. Daniel Horan, OFM will be speaking at 4:30 pm on November 7, 2013 at the University Chapel, … Continue reading →

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Gratitude

Posted on September 24, 2013 by Don Watkins

Lately I’ve been brimming with gratitude for a new beginning in my life. Grateful for the opportunity to begin another chapter in the book of life. “Sit finis Libris, non finis quaerendi.” That quote is found at the end of … Continue reading →

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Fathers Day Insight

Posted on June 16, 2013 by Don Watkins

For months and even years I’ve been praying for direction. Today as I meditated and now as I mindfully walk along the Allegany river near St. Bonaventure University the answers seem to flow. All of my life I have wanted … Continue reading →

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The Pond

Posted on September 18, 2011 by Don Watkins

Still water is attractive to me. There is quiet there. This small pond at Mt. Irenaeus is so inviting that I spent nearly an hour there last Sunday. Today I’m hiking further up the Mountain Road. The stillness of Mt. … Continue reading →

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The Rain

Posted on August 21, 2011 by Don Watkins

It’s raining and every time it rains like this I think of Thomas Merton. It’s so peaceful when it rains. I feel protected and close to my creator. “I came up here from the monastery last night, sloshing through the … Continue reading →

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The Great Bell

Posted on August 10, 2011 by Don Watkins

“Please help me. what am I going to do? I can’t go on like this. You can see that! Look at the state I am in. what ought I to do? Show me the way.” As if I needed more … Continue reading →

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Abbey

Posted on July 16, 2011 by Don Watkins

After a lovely trip through Letchworth Park I made it to Abbey of the Genesee. I haven’t been here in awhile. I was afraid I tarried too long in the state park, but pleasantly I made it in time to … Continue reading →

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