Yesterday at church, I was asking all the children what they planned to be for Halloween. I love watching their faces as they admit to what may be a deep desire for hidden powers……Batman….Wonder Woman…..Power Ranger. Some also choose a costume that, on someone else, might actually frighten them as, perhaps a way to gain courage. Halloween is day when kids rule. I have to confess an unusual love for this day. To see the children come to our door dressed in all manner of ways, holding out their bag saying “Trick or Treat” brings me such joy.

Last night one little princess, when given the opportunity to choose candy from the bowl rather than having me put it her bag, spent an unusually long time perusing the bowl. She looked at all the candy….large chocolate bars, bags of M&M’s, colorful lollipops,  bright red jawbreakers, bubble gum…..only to reach her little fingers in and choose one tiny Tootsie Roll. Her disposition fit her lovely costume and I got a glimpse into the sweetness of her gracious personality. It simultaneously brought laughter and tears to my eyes.

However, yesterday at church I greeted a mom and dad and their twin two year old boys with the question: “What are you going to be for Halloween?”. The parents answered: “monkeys.” The two boys,moved about the space in constant motion, gave me a grin. “Of course, they are.” I thought. At that moment I was sure that there are times of nearly every day when these two loving parents feel as if they are surrounded by a barrel of monkeys!

But the moment provided a perfect time for me to tell how, while at the Iona Abbey, I became aware of a very interesting architectural sight. In the chancel area, just opposite the communion altar, there is a beautiful cathedral window. Carved into the stone on one side of the window is the image of a cat. On the other side is the image of a monkey. The story goes that the images of these animals were carved there as a reminder. The monkey represents the active and busy side of life while the cat reminds us of the stillness of prayer and contemplation. As people of faith, we need both. The balance of active service and silence and contemplation can be an ever moving target for which many people long.

This reminder of the balance between monkey and cat is not only for our spiritual health but also for our physical and mental health. We hold the monkey and the cat in each hand. One feeds the depth of wisdom of the other.

It is an important reminder for our faith walk…….and for weary, busy parents.

Grant us, Lord, that balance
of action and stillness,
of work and play
that fits the wholeness you intend for us.
Help us to see that all is prayer;
all things part of life with You.
~Chris Polhill