Heaven is Now

All the way to Heaven is Heaven. ~ St. Catherine of Siena

Today we spent the day in Juneau. It was a glorious, sunny day when we set out to the Mendenhall Glacier. I thought we might need to layer but I found myself taking off clothes as we neared the Glacier, instead of adding them. The walk was scattered with wild flowers and pretty, shiny rocks. The Nugget Falls could be heard in the distance. The icy blue glacier beckoned us closer. The ice chunks in the sea were breathtaking. I loved especially the frizzly ice. Yes, I made that word up just now. It seems to freeze and sparkle and the word I thought of when I looked at it was frizzle which I realize is not a combination of those words.

From there we returned to the ship for lunch before going up 1,750 feet to Mount Roberts by tram. The view of Juneau and the area was gorgeous. I watched a blind bald eagle which was on display for awhile before feeling sad that it was caged.

It was beautiful as you can see, until you got a look at its disfigured eye and knew that its wings were clipped so that it could not fly.

Heading up the mountain, we ran into the Scottish sisters that we met one night at supper so we hiked together up to the Cross that was on top of the mountain and honoured a Jesuit, of all people, who loved this land and its beauty.

Tonight was the second formal night, which included lobster and baked Alaska on the menu. I walked upstairs to take a few photos of the sunset, throwing my fleece over top my fancy dress. The moon was out, peeking over the mountaintops. Really, one thing that has become very clear to me on this trip is that I expect miracles and blessings as my default. I am grateful for each step towards Heaven and I know that while I am here, God is providing me with a sampling of the Glory to come.

Peace,

Suzanne