Audio link.

I had the blessing of walking the Virginia Tech campus this week. I got up early to walk and listen to my “Pray as You Go” meditation app. After a troubled night’s sleep, the sunrise and the walk did my soul well. The question posed was, “What great works is God calling you to do?” Being on a college campus, I thought of the great minds who made history in the buildings around me. However, a still, small whisper reminded me of the unnoticed things, character traits, and responses to day-to-day events that make a difference. I texted my family my answers about being in the moment, forgiveness, and generosity. My oldest talked about leaving a legacy like her grandparents and parents.

The beauty of the campus reminded me that unseen hands create the space for us to enjoy walks, get to class on time and safely, and for healing. What is more healing than a sunrise over a duck pond with daffodils and a freshly cut meadow?

Benches were dedicated seating spots and delicately placed flowers of remembrance. This backdrop was my prayer or desire for great works. May the greatness of my works be found in the caring of the day-to-day without the need for approval or position. May the song in my heart be that of the bird in the morning—quiet and joyful. May my hands produce beauty, and my words bring life.

Discussion Questions

1. Reflecting on the narrator’s experience at Virginia Tech, how do you think the combination of nature, spirituality, and the campus environment contributed to their sense of peace and clarity?
2. The narrator mentions feeling called to consider “great works” during their walk. How do you interpret the idea of “great works” in the context of their experience, especially in relation to the small, unnoticed acts of kindness and character traits?
3. How does the setting of a college campus, with its history and atmosphere of learning, influence the narrator’s reflections on the question posed by their meditation app?