Aspects of Being

Gabrielle Perreault

Would it be presumptuous for any of us to identify ourselves with Christ? At first glance it appears wholly inappropriate, and many would never presume to stand in the same light. Yet while the stories and rituals we recount and enact may seem from long ago and far away, it is precisely that which empowers me, especially at this time of year. 

One of the most moving moments in the Easter story, for me, is that of the tribulations experienced by Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane. It is not quite as celebrated as the rest of the accounts pertaining to events that came to pass. Nevertheless it has touched me deeply more times than I could count, having visited more than a few "black holes" in my time. It has often been my "link", were I to associate myself with the trials of others, Divine or otherwise. For me, a kindred is a kindred - a guide, a blessing, and the deepest form of sharing in the things that make us one. And sometimes, I believe that this is all we really need to know. 

My heart aches and rejoices when I let into me the poignancy of those excruciating moments of doubt described: knowing what lay ahead, being betrayed by one and then abandoned by the rest, praying in the darkness if not for release, then at least resolve, fearing what he knew even as his divine understanding had foretold its inevitability for the sake of a Higher Purpose. This is what we often view as the lowest point in our own Human Condition, painfully aware of our shame, frailty and fears, and feeling very much shut out of the Light of Love and Understanding. It's the loneliest place on earth. 

While scholarly debates rage on yet, nearly 2000 years later, as to the true nature of this man we call Christ, perhaps it is indeed our universal sameness that begs acknowledgement and acceptance. What some may dismissively call a simple "story" is often overwhelmingly full of simple Truth. We have all rested there at one time or another, in the darkness of doubt and all-consuming fear, not knowing how to continue on. But here was one who walked in our shoes, epitomizing the very tribulations we ourselves encounter. And aside from this, as we take solace in an account from 2000 years ago, so do we create our own stories to pass on to the future........ 
 
 

No, magic cannot cure me 
if I do not seek it out ~ 
In looking there is much to find. 
It's the dedication of my soul this flight, 
it's my life that I have fought for 
in each walking of a mile ~ 
And I know that there are others
giving all good reason 
for each day of each good season ~ 
In weakness lies the most to gain, 
in each moment I can live again. 
And yes, it's still the same.... 

No, just living cannot teach us Life. 
It's our quest to seek and find; 
in the wonder of each moment, 
in the notes we sing inside. 
So if I lose my love of playing 
and am temporary blind ~ 
It's there in the very heart of me.
True Believer, part of me. 
There is magic in each Earthtime
and the Love in all is also mine ~ 
And yes, it's there again.... 
Singing me through 
Making me new 
Heaven's living voice in You..... 

~ Wishing those who reflect on this season a Blessed Easter in all that it has to teach of sorrow and rejoicing. Simunye (we are one) ~ Gabrielle