Ode to a Woman named Anne

Dear Anne,

I thought a bit about your idea we should keep our earliest correspondence, and I am happy that you consider these notes to be both fun, interesting and just maybe.....  something our grandchildren might read and blush or smile.

However, this request overlaps with what New Hope is, and what it is not.

So, here is my reply - I guess it is a poem of sorts, but it does not rhyme:

Subject: Re: This is our perspective....

Life is a gospel

Every home a temple

Every table an altar

Every moment of truth with compassion, a sacramental gathering

We choose to not write the new experiences and literal, old-testament interactions we are having with quite literally, an interactive presence - a "burning bush" of sorts, that has been part of my family's lineage for hundreds if not thousands of years.

This presence - and it has no gender, is what most would refer to as "God."

So, this is a serious and important idea, and thus I prayed - and the response was clear if not written on a stone wall or accompanied by a pillar of fire....  sometimes the voice is gentle, and simply.... replies, but it is yet is not a reply made of words.

The meaning is clear.  

Dear Anne, We should not write down the Gospel of this moment, our growing friendship, although the temptation is very real.  Here is why:

For too many generations, in too many cultures and languages and faiths, those books are used as kindling to burn down the world.

Thus - let us keep writing this story - fresh each day, and if we make errors (as I certainly have, to my dismay) let us remember, Each day is a new beginning, born anew - cleansed of sin.

This is the foundation of something permanent - my friendship with Beverly - but sometime, perhaps in the dark, I will reach out with trembling fingers and touch you.... perhaps..... and if you seem, interested..... I will whisper something to you, and call you (whispering) sweet.... sweet Anne :)

And our world for one moment will unite with whatever God is, and heaven - the eternity of the moment, will be ours, like a lightning bug in a bottle on a warm August night.

We are sore from hard work, challenging moments and lots of prayer. Today is the feast of Saint Barnabas, apostle of Jesus, the Saint of Encouragement.



JH