Reflections for Lent 2026: Break the Mirror

“To Thee, O God, we turn for peace …”
—Soren Kierkegaard

I find peace in perspective. I also find strength, particularly when I feel overwhelmed. Perspective helps me understand that what is in front of me need not determine my fate. Japanese poet Nanao Sakaki said it best with his poem, “Break the Mirror.” (Photo by Mick Haupt)

By Rev. Eduardo Bousson, General Board of Higher Education and Ministries

Arriving at the mid-stages of life has its advantages. Yes, there is some physical pain attached to it. Physically, I am not able to do the same things I used to 20 years ago. The beauty of being middle-aged is the gift of perspective. I am able to look back and understand the challenges of the present, not as crises but as part of life. In every challenge, there is ugliness and beauty. Life springs from both.

This perspective is a source of peace. I believe it is the sort of peace Jesus talked about when he told his disciples that the peace he gives is unlike the peace the world gives. When the world offers the absence of conflict through strength and deterrence as peace, God offers a peace that lives and persists in us even in the face of great turmoil. Peace is to know that no matter what, God is with us.

I find peace in perspective. I also find strength, particularly when I feel overwhelmed. Perspective helps me understand that what is in front of me need not determine my fate. Japanese poet Nanao Sakaki said it best with his poem.

Break the Mirror

In the morning
After taking a cold shower
—-what a mistake—-
I look at the mirror.

There, a funny guy,
Grey hair, white beard, wrinkled skin,
—-what a pity—-
Poor, dirty, old man,
He is not me, absolutely not.

Land and life
Fishing in the ocean
Sleeping in the desert with stars
Building a shelter in the mountains
Farming the ancient way
Singing with coyotes
Singing against nuclear war—
I’ll never be tired of life.
Now I’m seventeen years old,
Very charming young man.

I sit quietly in lotus position,
Meditating, meditating for nothing.
Suddenly a voice comes to me:
“To stay young,
To save the world,
Break the mirror.”

I hope you have been enjoying the devotions from some of our chaplains as they reflect on seeing things anew. Next week is Holy Week. We have one more devotion by one of our chaplains, who is serving one of our preparatory schools. As we approach Easter, may we gain new perspectives on life that lead us to lasting peace within us and in our world.

Prayer

Divine Peace, help us see the world anew. When we are discouraged by what we see, remind us of your presence and give us the strength to break the mirror. Amen.

Rev. H. Eduardo Bousson
Senior manager, Collegiate Ministries
The General Board of Higher Education and Ministries
The United Methodist Church