WA CLC members came together on the 13th September 2020 to recognise Reconciliation Week and the fifth anniversary of Laudato Si., on a reflective walk at the Beeliar wetland south of Perth called ‘The Spectacles. Mostly we walked in silence absorbing the sensory richness of spring flowers, birds, and trees and gathered for group reflection and sharing amidst the bushland. Later we had ate lunch together enjoying our first gathering since WA lockdown in March. It was sensitively organised by Chris and Jenny Gardner who provided an inspiring and thought provoking experience for all.
Anne Zevis reflects further on the walk….
The general area is known as Mandogalup, a Noongar word thought to mean ‘meeting place’. Which makes sense - freshwater is a good place to meet.
Our Ignatian Precept - ‘finding God in all things’ - called to me. The walk, mostly in silence, provided me with a great opportunity to practice that. At first I focused on my breathing and the gentle movement of the breezes and thought of the spirit of Creation being active.
Part of our walk took us close to many paperbark trees. Also known as Melaleuca or tea-trees. I observed some of my companions touching the trees and decided to do likewise. I was amazed at the soft feel of the bark. It yielded readily to gentle pressure - a tactile connection to God’s presence.
A large freshwater lake was active in a gentle sort of way, with many waterbirds going about their business. The beautiful setting encouraged us in our meditations and reflections.
For myself - pondering the way the first inhabitants lived in harmony with their environment over so many generations, using what they needed in ways that were sustainable over many many centuries. I also wondered what we could learn from them… and how we could learn that, where to start??