1)
The idea of suggesting that some acorns, a ribbon and an owl feather could be sacramental may be informed by the fact that sacraments involve signification. St. Augustine believed that sacraments were “signs” of sacred things. This means that sacraments could be visible signs or symbols that represent something else. The squirrel may have perceived an acorn, a ribbon and an owl feather as symbols which represent something else. In this regard, what is represented by the items may be related to their nature or be purely conventional. For example, the acorn may signify life meaning it has some spirituality to it. In addition, it bears materiality, presence, and polyvalence, all of which are characteristics of symbols which may be sacramental (Ladinsky 45). The ribbon may be a symbol of unity or bond. In this regard, it is a symbol that represents something else which is conventional. It is also polyvalent because it may have another meaning such as beauty. The owl’s feather could be a sacramental symbol because it may represent the spiritual by signifying wisdom or it could show grace because of the excited manner with which the squirrel rushes to displays it.
2)
The ideas implied in Ladinski’s poem regarding sacraments have some similarities with the ideas implied in Catholic teachings on sacraments. First of all, they all entail materiality or embodiment. This is because they are tangible/ physical items. Secondly, they may be used to communicate on a remarkably deep level. For example, the owl’s feather may represent something profound. An acorn, which is a staple food for squirrels, may represent life for the animal. Life in this regard, is something intangible of a spiritual nature. Thirdly, for signs and symbols to be sacramental, there qualities as a representation of something else must be agreed upon through convention or through a property accorded to them by nature. An acorn is a creation of nature as a source of nourishment. This is why it is associated with life. On the other hand, a ribbon may signify a bond with someone else (Ladinsky 1). This is conventional. These teachings have taught me that sacraments are a matter of interpretation and acceptability.
3)
The teachings on sacraments lead to a broad definition of sacraments as signs and symbols of significance that entail materiality, communicate on a deep level and provide a sense of “grace” to the individual. One personal item that I consider sacramental is my guitar. I have struggled to learn how to play the guitar for an extended period of time. I am making progress in my learning and this signifies my struggles in life to accomplish different objectives. Overcoming the difficulty in learning the guitar represents my gradual progress towards success in life. In this regard, the guitar is a symbol because of my own acceptance. It is also of a material nature and represents something spiritual. In addition to this, my guitar is sacramental because it is polyvalent. It represents my struggles in life as well as my love for music. In this regard, it also brings about “grace” because it makes me react with joy when playing it. I also regard my guitar highly because it was a gift from my father. All these qualities are in-keeping with the qualities of sacraments as described in Catholic teaching.
Work Cited
Ladinsky Daniel. “The Sacraments.” Andelieya (official. Version 1. Web. 8 Feb.2014 http://www.andelieya.wordpress.com
Ladinsky Daniel. Love Poems from God. 7th brief ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2000. Print.
