Catch and Release

Sunday, August 2, 2026

The Rev. Felicia Melcorledi De Rosa

LGBTQIA+ Person of Faith

Quote

 “Receive love when it is offered, and offer love regardless. Yet do not allow the duality of love to cause you despair. For love can lift up your heart and it can likewise drag it down. Accept love in the manner in which it comes to you. Do not possess it, or attempt to control or shape it. For love is free, and shall come or go in its manner.”

~Aradia de Tuscano

Devotion

The summer is ending, the days grow shorter, and we find ourselves again at a season of harvest. This time of year, reminds us that we do, in fact, reap what we sow. It is a day to acknowledge both our accountability and responsibility in our own lives – as well as the lives we impact. Were we mindful of what we planted? Of where? What have our efforts yielded? Rewards? Consequences? Are these actions a true reflection of our authenticity? Of who we are beneath the mask?

The Mother moves us to slow down and think about what we’ve accomplished thus far in our journey. Today, we step outside of ourselves and take a moment to feel thankful for the things that went well, where we perhaps fell short, and the lessons we’ve learned from these experiences.

Curiosity is key in this season of transition. As an artist, I have learned to ask questions: What do I want to say? How shall I say it? Why does it matter? “Why” is oftentimes the most important question we can ask ourselves. Hidden in the ‘why’ of things, is intent. Intent leads us towards manifestation and actualization, and in many instances; clarity and understanding. If we listen to what is being said, if we can operate within an open mindset, we challenge ourselves to grow. ‘Why’ can lead us on a path to deeper empathy and self-awareness.

Today then, is a day of reflection, punctuated by the evenings waning gibbous moon. This phase is connected to a sense of release, and reminds us to let go of any lingering, negative energy or patterns that might be holding us back, and to let go of old habits and beliefs that no longer serve us. Letting go doesn’t mean to forget, mind you – it simply means not allowing the past to control us. This can seem hard, but it’s well worth the effort, as it allows us to focus on what truly matters in our lives, and what we may envision for our future. It’s a reminder to care for both your mind and body. After all, we cannot care for others, without first caring for ourselves. And in a troubled world, such practices stand as the foundation of resilience. Let tonight then, be an opportunity for spiritual growth and transformation.

Let’s take the time to embrace new possibilities. 

Reflection

1.    Do I make space for others?

2.    Do I show myself the same compassion that I show my loved ones?

3.    Who do I wish to become, as I journey on?

4.    What do I wish to be my legacy when my time of harvest finally comes?

Action

Today, I invite you to unplug. Silence your device for a bit and find a quiet place outside. Re-engage with the tangible world and tap into your sense of wonder. Whether it’s following a trail, finding a quiet spot under a tree, or near a body of water, draw your focus inward and sit in reflection. Take some deep breaths. Touch grass. Engage your senses.

One of my favorite ways to feel connected, is to find a body of water, take my shoes off, and let my feet sink into the sand at the water’s edge. I imagine all the pain and negativity I have been carrying as a ball of light moving down my core, from my mind, into my throat, down through my chest, into my belly, down through my legs and into the earth.

As above and below, so mote it be.

Blessed be, beloveds.