Listen

A little over 53 years ago, my mother decided to name me Raechal with an unusual spelling. She did this for two reasons: 1) it looked pretty and 2) so people could call me Rae. Guess how many times she has called me Rae? Zero. And in 53 years, I have had my name misspelled and mispronounced more times
than you could say Raechal.
 
It gets even more interesting. My middle name is Lea, but my mother pronounced it as Leigh. Quite curious.
 
Growing up, I would hear my parents calling my name in various tones. There was the encouraging tone, the warning tone signaling imminent danger, and, of course, the “you are in trouble” tone that came with the full name, Raechal Lea. The best one was the gentle, loving tone that filled my heart and reassured me that all was right in the world.
 
From birth, I began to associate with the name they gave me and recognized their distinct voices.
 
I learned to Listen for my name.
 
This also taught me the social practice of starting a conversation, typically by addressing someone by name. We Discern someone is trying to get our attention, marking the beginning of a communication and the continued growth of a relationship.
 
I hadn’t given much thought to any of this until recently when a friend mentioned reading a book about Thomas Merton, the Trappist monk and spiritual author. One of his ideas struck her. He wrote, “You are a word spoken by God.” She asked me, Raechal, do you know your word?
 
I am a word spoken by God
 
Do I know my word?
 
A wisdom literature book I’ve read suggested establishing a daily practice of praying and meditating, talking and listening to God to build a relationship. Because of this practice, I could answer confidently and affirmatively.
 
Yes, yes I do. In fact, I knew the word even before she finished asking the question. It is different than the one my parents gave me. It is a name given to me by my Spiritual Father, encompassing all. He created me to be and all I am.
 
My Holy Name
 
My daily practice of centering prayer has taught me to Listen for the call from my Spiritual Father saying My Word, just as my parents taught me to Listen for my name, Raechal Lea. Similarly, this address aims to get my attention so he can communicate with me, whether imparting instructions, issuing a warning, or conveying a loving sentiment that fills my heart, letting me know that all is well.
 
By now, you might be wondering what my Word is. My Word is Joy, embodying all He created me to be and all I am.
 
I pray that it is something you find today.

 
If you need help discovering your Word, please reach out. I would love to help you learn and establish spiritual practices that will help you discern your Word. Your Holy Name

From my heart to yours 

Until next time 

Raechal!