The Door to My Heart

Dear Diary

It rained lightly this morning, just enough to freshen the leaves and make the moss along the embankment soft underfoot. I packed Today’s Meditation from my book, a sandwich for lunch, and tucked it all into my satchel before Mini and I set off for the cave. She bounded ahead like always, her little bottom wiggling, but paused when we reached the opening—almost like she knew we were entering something holy.

Inside, it was dim and peaceful. The little grotto of Our Lady stood quiet and watchful beside the stream, which whispered along like a hymn. We walked past it slowly, and I reached for the old carved walnut door—John Hathaway’s door. I always feel something special when I open it, like I’m being trusted with a secret. Mini slipped in first, and then I followed, shutting it gently behind me. That’s when it becomes my secret room.

I spread out my little blanket and read today’s meditation: The Advantages of Interior Solitude. It said that those who detach from earthly things and enter into the solitude of their hearts are the ones who truly unite with God. That made me think. Even with Mini curled against my leg and the sound of the spring nearby, I felt still and quiet inside. Not alone—but alone with God. Maybe that’s what real solitude means.

The meditation talked about how souls who live in God begin to possess themselves and grow quickly in virtue. I want to be one of those souls. I want to learn how to close my eyes and ears to the world and listen only to the gentle voice of Jesus in my heart. The walnut door reminded me—it’s not just the room that’s secret. It’s the part of my soul where I meet Him, away from the noise and busy-ness.

For lunch, I had a tuna and egg salad sandwich—just enough mustard and a big slice of pickle in the middle. Mini got the corners, like always, and we sat together with the blanket spread near the desk John Hathaway used long ago. It’s nice to think that he prayed here too.

Here is my evening prayer:

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for the silence of today,
for the walnut door and the hidden room,
and for the gentle way You call my heart.
Teach me to be still inside,
to shut out the noise and let You in.
Let my heart become a little sanctuary,
where Your peace can grow like ivy along the stone.
Help me love You more than anything,
and seek You not in busy things,
but in the quiet You love best.
Bless Sister, bless Mini,
and bless all hearts learning how to be still.

Amen.

Love,

Kathy