A pleasant surprise during morning mass at St Clare. There seated directly in front of me, several pews to the front, was none other than Jim Nagel. He cordially greeted me after mass, extending an invitation to share breakfast. He took me to a charming health food restaurant ‘First Watch’. Their house specialty multigrain pancakes are delightful and enormous in size. The waitress informed me the monthly special is steel cut oats, a personal favorite. Speaking of health foods, I must spread the word on an incredible food find. I was shopping at Zagara’s when I discovered Chia seeds, normally priced $15 a bag selling for $2.50. I purchased all eight of the bags. I never tried the seeds, although I am aware they are recognized as the current super food craze, loaded with protein, Omega-3, and fiber. They are remarkable, a unique eating experience, while providing energy. Raw, they form a gel when masticated. Chia seeds can be substituted for eggs in recipes. When mixed with water they form an adhesive gel similar to eggs in a batter. My son informs me they can serve the same purpose in vegan puddings and smoothies. Anyway, Jim Nagel was fresh from a performing excursion in New York City. He conducted his one-man Thomas Merton play at the very church Thomas Merton experienced his conversion to Catholicism. His stories were invigorating, a true testament to the Holy Spirit being active in his adventures. He is prayerfully pursuing an opportunity to serve as artist, or actor, in residence at the Bishop Fulton Sheen Theater in NYC. The breakfast overflowed with conversation, wonderful in depth, exploring the creative spirit tuned to the spiritual. I must say I was forced to work tomorrow, so there will be no Saturday poetry reading at ‘Negative Space’. I will interpret the matter as a sign. Overall, the Jim Nagel breakfast convinces me my St Paul Shrine experience, aligned with my Cleveland experience, allows for a certain carryover. Those able to advance are welcome. The Man of Prayer resides relevant. Mary, Joseph, and Vinita are enjoyable dinner companions. The Saturday prayer group remains stout. Father Roger is my preferred confessor, knowing me intimately, providing excellent simple spiritual guidance. I am working with Carrie on furthering Hospice activity through the presentation to the Franciscan Third Order. The Poor Clares are bonded spiritually on a profound level. I tried to arraign a one-on-one consultation with Sister Mary Thomas, however that will not be possible until after Lent. The time of the risen Christ will be perfect in accommodation. It is important not to destroy the past. More appropriately, simply moving beyond calls forth action immersed in grace. I recall rock lyrics to the tune, ‘anyone who ever played a part, shouldn’t turn around and hate it’. The morning proved rewarding, providing confirmation, sweet consolation everything is all right. Returning after breakfast for adoration, walking into the chapel, there was my newly anointed spiritual director walking into the parish office, dapper in his handsome priestly hat, displaying dignity, proper pride, and enthusiasm for the priesthood, greeting with a smile and well-wishes.