The Feast of Saint Francis and a book anniversary

Today is the Feast of Saint Francis. I first shared the poem above three years ago to mark the feast, hoping to articulate a small piece of what still draws me to Francis of Assisi over the years. His life of simplicity, joy, and celebration is something that anchors me still. Not any theological doctrine or philosophical treatise— but his life itself. His dancing and singing. His simplicity and joy. His deep communion with the world. “Lord make me an instrument of thy peace” still stands out to me as one of the most radical and urgent of prayers.

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This week also marks the one year anniversary of my book release of The Thread. Thanks to everyone who has continued reading this weekly (-ish) newsletter and for supporting my writing by purchasing the book this past year. To mark the anniversary, The Thread as well as the Saint Francis broadside are both on sale for 15% off for this week only. If you haven’t bought the book yet, I hope you’ll consider buying a copy.

The book and the broadside also make great gifts. Since the stores are already popping up holiday displays, may I make a gentle suggestion that we all devote some of our dollars to buying art and supporting independent artists in the next few months as we’re buying gifts? There are so many artists doing incredible work, worthy of our support and patronage, and I’ll spend the next few months sharing some of my favorites. If you feel so inclined, your support in the form of buying my work truly means the world to me.

Peace,

Andrew