What’s wrong with the desert?
Everything, that’s what!
It’s hot – desolate – dry –
damn little to recommend it
as a destination of reflection,
but reflect, I must;
having been directed
by that irresistible urge
towards the holy –
towards the light – of course,
everything is light here;
even darkness is light here.
Without distraction –
apart from my hoarded necessities –
there is a sense
of sacred solitude
that keeps me safe from harm.
Temptations, one by one
resolve to wear me down –
to end my isolation.
Visions of safety,
service and satisfaction
dance before my eyes…
but memories of my
covenantal history
restore my sight.
This is a test of my resolve –
the covenant, unshakable, continues;
the bargain unbroken,
as imbued with borrowed integrity
gleaned from graciousness,
my hunger is satisfied
my longing, suppressed,
my way of service becomes apparent.
Feb. 18, 2010 – New Glasgow, NS
Reflections from here 