The noun, rumination, means a deep considered thought about something.

My wife likes to leave bird seed out for birds to eat and enjoy throughout the year especially during the winter when feeding sources are not readily available.

The birds particularly like the seeds that are formed in shape of a bell and are attached to a pole by a string. 

It is amazing how they hang on to that source of nourishment with up to 4 birds at a time delicately balancing themselves on the “bird bell,” eating as it swings in the air. At the same time other birds are on the ground to pick up the seeds that are dropped from the feeding frenzy occurring above them. The “bird bell” usually lasts 2-3 days before it is entirely eaten.

Then the birds wait patiently for my wife’s next gift of food for them.

Earthly nourishment is like that, whether food for birds or animals or food that humans eat, the satisfaction of a good meal only lasts for a short time until we or some animal start to think about what will be eaten next.

The only nourishment that has an everlasting impact on us is the nourishment we receive from the Holy Eucharist. The graces we receive from this Blessed Sacrament provide both an immediate and everlasting impact on our souls. Through these special graces we are strengthened in body and soul to become more of what God wants us to be. We also are drawn into a closer relationship with Jesus.

How blessed we are to be fed with this life-saving food! 



By Deacon Tom Gryzbek