time to pray

The rhythmic thump of my shovel in the snow shakes the placid winter air. The ka-chunk of metal on pavement followed by the swish of tossed snow ricochets off the barn and then disappears into the soft blue undulating meadows. The sky is a gray flannel sheet, securely tucked in at every patch of horizon. I feel safe under this wintery bower.
I pray best when I work. The surest way for me to pass a few hours in prayer and contemplative thought is to take up a hoe, a rake, a bucket and rag, a paintbrush, or a vegetable peeler. The Shakers understood this well, as their proverb attests: "Hands to Work, Hearts to God".
Do you have time to pray today? Then pray for this little one.
Thanks.