Triduum 6

Inside we witnessed the miracle of the Light -- and a most special gift. During this ritual a song is sung called the "Exalted." I had never hear this before -- and never will again -- not like that. The Center is graced by an most gifted singer named Kathy who both arranged and sang this 'tour de force' -- 26 minutes of a capella chant and lilting solo prayer on our behalf. This is absolutely the most inspiring song ever written -- at least as she brings it to life. Each clear intonation of, "This is the day" brought chills and tears to every soul and heart -- as if an internal chime was struck -- again and again. I cannot even recall if this miracle occurred before or after the resumed procession -- it matters not. I heard the flickering tapers in each person's hand and saw the music slice the air and carry the words as crystals in the lantern of my being. Sleep did not come easily that night.

This came at about 2AM.

LIGHT & WORD

Colorful reflections play upon the wall
and a scent of heady incense fills the air.
A soft, caressing, pulsing sound from nowhere
extracts a secret smile from my aching heart.

Outside there is darkness, -- and there, and there;
shadows fitting to those ever suffering
from yearning, longing or crush of endless shame.
But here is light, flickering hope, tiny passion flames.

This is the NIGHT, not of darkness but of rebirth.
Yet we are blinded by too much churning flame
or burst of harsh reality's morning glare.
I can see you better, Lord, by taper light.

The close angel voice is a crystal chime
that chills the spine and pierces the empty soul,
broken now into glittering bits of dancing flame;
shards of angels, singing in hand held lights.

I see you now, Lord, reborn in each friend's hand,
more so than in ancient words and prophesy.
I cannot see the soul or spirit within,
but I can hear the dancing flames call out Your name.

Draw close by wooden drum beat and humming string.
Lend your voice to mine in half remembered song.
Feel dripping wax brand your hand in sudden joy.
Join the shards of angels in Jesus' laughing prayer.