O Wisdom

O Sapientia- O Wisdom 

Today in the sharing of the news around changes in the USA's relationship with Cuba, and of the FARC's ceasefire, we learnt also of the work of those who value peace, reconciliation and hope.  As we draw closer to the end of Advent and to the nearing of Jesus' coming amongst us its seems fitting that we hear the antiphon;

O Wisdom, who came from the mouth of the Most High, reaching from end to end and ordering all things mightily and sweetly: come, and teach us the way of prudence.

I am struck by these words of Marie Howe in her poem Government;

Government By Marie Howe 

Standing next to my old friend I sense that his soldiers have retreated. 

And mine? They're resting their guns on their shoulders 

talking quietly. I'm hungry, one says. 

Cheeseburger, says another, 

and they all decide to go and find some dinner. 

But the next day, negotiating the too narrow aisles of 

The Health and Harmony Food Store -- when I say, Excuse me, 

to the woman and her cart of organic chicken and green grapes 

she pulls the cart not quite far back enough for me to pass, 

and a small mob in me begins picking up the fruit to throw. 

So many kingdoms, 

and in each kingdom, so many people: the disinherited son, the corrupt counselor, 

the courtesan, the fool. 

And so many gods -- arguing among themselves, 

over toast, through the lunch salad 

and on into the long hours of the mild spring afternoon -- I'm the god. 

No, I'm the god. No, I'm the god. 

I can hardly hear myself over their muttering. 

How can I discipline my own army? They're exhausted and want more money. 

How can I disarm when my enemy seems so intent?

As I put our children to bed this evening I sat with them and read, my thoughts turned to  what a kingdom they are creating, through hope, peace, gentleness and unwavering and unfailing love, such wisdom I can learn from.