The Healing Oil of the Thistle

Today at Thistle Farms, Becca shared information on the thistle that most of us did not know. "Milk Thistle has been used as a liver remedy for at least 2,000 years. Research shows that compounds from the seeds help protect the liver against damage from alcohol and hepatitis and can even regenerate liver cells that have been damaged."

When the thistle was chosen to represent the women who have walked the streets where this flower (considered a weed) grows, we had no idea how much deeper the meaning would take root.

In honor of holy week, Becca combined thistle oil and shea butter and, while stirring the creation with her hands, prayed over it.

"Even when we are not clear where life is leading,

if we are loving each other,

we are being led toward God.

We pray that our bodies are healed

so that we can continue to walk

where we are being led.

May the thistle oil,

made to heal our liver and cleanse our bodies,

make us stronger

so our spirits can continue to love and serve God

and find our way home."

Then, slowly and sacredly, Becca began anointing the feet of Terry and said a silent prayer for her. Once Terry's feet had been cleaned, Terry then took the thistle-and-butter mixture and performed the same gesture to Peggy's hands. Each woman in the circle took turns blessing each other's hands and feet.

I am once again in awe of the beauty of these women, the love of the community that is gathered around me and the spirit that is so obviously present when two or more are gathered in His name.