A POEM FOR THE SEASON

The following poem has captured the feelings that are part of this time of year, when shadows lengthen, and darkness comes earlier than we expect.  In our present day, yet another variant of the Covid-19 is moving across the world--throwing a shadow on our holiday plans.  Advent is a season of preparation and spiritual housekeeping.  The season also foreshadows the splendor of the brightness of Christmas.  Our Christian faith is strong enough to live--and grow through the times of shadow and darkness.  We just need to call upon it.  Here is the poem:

O Lord, I am caught in that moment of half-light, the breathless point of balance between sun and moon.

As I bid farewell to that cold purification of the night, in that same moment, I fling wide my arms, to be embraced by the warmth and glory of the sun, knowing that in due time I will bow to the receding light and open my arms to darkness once again.

Thus, O Lord, you come into our lives, in the blaze of splendor, the certainty of your presence, in the times of aridity and isolation, even to the point of despair.

Throughout this continuing journeying, from the zenith of midday to the depths of midnight and back to blinding noontide, we grow toward You, the true light, that shines like the sun beyond the darkness forever.

                             ISHPRIYA R. S. C. J.

EARTH STEWARD ACTION:  How resilient are you in facing the darker times?  Look forward to joy, reach out to help others and plan for a less commercial holiday.  You will feel better and “mother earth” will be healthier too.

SOURCE:  Earth Prayers from Around the World, edited by Elizabeth Roberts and Elias Amidon. P. 342.