There is a show that talks about the presence of angels with us. It is an episode in a series called Swedenborg and Life, which explores all manner of topics around spirituality. The speaker offered two lists describing qualities that contrast angelic and hellish influences. I found this helpful. 

 

The devilish one sounded too close for comfort. 

 

"Endless chatter. Tells us what to do. Feeds on fear. Tells us what to believe. Consists of evil and falsity."

 

Yup. I have been hounded by that relentless yammering. 

 

Our family was enjoying supper on the deck, with some of our favorite foods, plus the dogwoods were in bloom. Then my thoughts turned to our summer plans. Would our adult kids be able to join us? Would there be a place to stay now that our rental had fallen through? Instead of enjoying the company of the people I was with, I fussed about a time weeks away that I had little or no control over. 

 

The list that describes angelic influence has an entirely different ambiance. 

 

"Subtle. Supportive. Does not dictate. Based on truth and goodness. Symbolic. Respects our freedom. Unwilling to frighten. Avoids telling us what to do or believe."

 

Deep exhale. 

 

A cardinal swooped low enough to catch my eye. I thought of the passage about the birds of the air and the flowers clothed like kings. I felt grateful for the gentle reminder. Then I rejoined the people who had been beside me all along.