I wonder whether the disciples
were really sleeping,
or whether they said after everything –
“we must have been sleeping,”
because this is the story
that breaks and heals the heart
of those of us whose children,
whose friends,
whose neighbors and work colleagues
have become addicted,
tried suicide or died by it,
became violent or depressed,
ran away, went to jail,
were deported, lost their homes,
none of these a cup of God’s brewing,
but all calling out
for nighttime companions.
Why couldn’t we stay awake to
what was happening
to somebody kneeling so very near us.
So many sorrows in life
come with kisses and heavy boots.
Maybe part of “staying woke” is the ability to be a nighttime companion now. I don’t know. I do know this touched me way deep. Bless you
Thank you. I know I often suffer from insomnia except when I should be staying awake.
“…kisses and heavy boots.”
Oh, yes! Like a kick in the gut; the ways we betray and are betrayed by self and others.
Lord, have mercy!
Amen.