I Love Me Here
by Rev. Kimberly Marooney, Ph.D.
The view of the medieval village was incredible! We were seated on the patio of the sweetest café. The sound of the river lulled us into relaxation. Watching the water as it swirled past was a meditation in peacefulness.
From our vantage point, we could see everything! Looking across the river, our fellow spiritual pilgrims crossed the bridge walking back and forth from the hotels, through the shops, and to the enormous basilica. Up the river, the Pyrenees Mountains rose into the blue sky and appeared to be kissed by the sun. Down the river and out of site was the cave where the Mother Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette.
Reminders of the nightly Candlelight Procession of devotion were everywhere. We were wearing our prayer scarves we had blessed with holy water from the cave here in Lourdes. It felt like heaven on earth.
“I love me here!” my sister pronounced. The sound of her voice declaring those words sent me into bliss and joy. This was the first trip I have taken with my sister and her husband. My first spiritual pilgrimage to the south of France to celebrate Divine Holy Mother in her many forms. My first time in Lourdes, or any place like this. The energy of loving devotion was palpable in the air, emanated by thousands who had come here seeking healing, forgiveness, insight, or a miracle.
