I'm not a church-goer these days but I remember the times when I'd HAVE to go at least two or three times a week. I belonged to a Catholic family and I went to a Convent school so there was no escaping it.
Apart from singing hymns and doing readings, there was one part of the service that I really used to enjoy and I still do, on the rare occasions that I go now (just to make my mother happy). It's the offering of peace, where you join your hands and bow your head down; first in front towards the priest, then to your right, and then to your left, saying "peace be with you" all three times.
I love the whole energy and vibe of this exercise, and the synchronicity with which it happens always amazes me. Your right is someone else's left, but no matter who is next to you and how many times you go to church, it all falls into place. For those brief couple of seconds when you turn to your right, the person on your right decides to turn left and your eyes lock ever so slightly and you bow your head and offer each other peace. You always mean it, even if it is a stranger. I know I do.
I remember way back in school, we used this as an opportunity to smooth over the creases in our friendships and patch up small or big fights. It didn't matter where you were sitting, your friend could be a few pews ahead or behind, but during the peace exchange you looked at each other and mouthed "peace" and then smiled. Sometimes, we'd hold out our index and middle fingers in the shape of a V and give each other the universal sign of peace. All grudges washed away, no more hint of bitterness and anger.
Those were simpler times, when relationships were pure and untainted. They did not bear the weight of prejudices and egos; these were friendships that would eventually last a lifetime, only you just didn't know it then. Skirmishes and arguments could be transcended and forgotten easily. Making up with your friend offered nothing but the sweet release of love and laughter once again.
Sometimes all it takes is that one gesture of peace.
Peace be with you.
Apart from singing hymns and doing readings, there was one part of the service that I really used to enjoy and I still do, on the rare occasions that I go now (just to make my mother happy). It's the offering of peace, where you join your hands and bow your head down; first in front towards the priest, then to your right, and then to your left, saying "peace be with you" all three times.
I love the whole energy and vibe of this exercise, and the synchronicity with which it happens always amazes me. Your right is someone else's left, but no matter who is next to you and how many times you go to church, it all falls into place. For those brief couple of seconds when you turn to your right, the person on your right decides to turn left and your eyes lock ever so slightly and you bow your head and offer each other peace. You always mean it, even if it is a stranger. I know I do.
I remember way back in school, we used this as an opportunity to smooth over the creases in our friendships and patch up small or big fights. It didn't matter where you were sitting, your friend could be a few pews ahead or behind, but during the peace exchange you looked at each other and mouthed "peace" and then smiled. Sometimes, we'd hold out our index and middle fingers in the shape of a V and give each other the universal sign of peace. All grudges washed away, no more hint of bitterness and anger.
Those were simpler times, when relationships were pure and untainted. They did not bear the weight of prejudices and egos; these were friendships that would eventually last a lifetime, only you just didn't know it then. Skirmishes and arguments could be transcended and forgotten easily. Making up with your friend offered nothing but the sweet release of love and laughter once again.
Sometimes all it takes is that one gesture of peace.
Peace be with you.
7 comments:
Peace be with you :)
Btw i believe the times are still the same. Relationships with right people can be as pure and as tainted as they used be. You just need to find your kind of people.
Liked your post :)
Peace be with you.
Thank you Nida and TC. Peace!
TC - I mean the times in one's life when one is young. For me, it was in the past but it also applies to younger people today.
Relationships are just easier when you are a certain age :-)
Don't you wish, things and times were simpler again. As I read through your post, I could feel what you meant by the phrase. Maybe its the stillness of the night at my end, maybe something else...don't know...
But yes, really loved reading through and seeing you leave a few comments at riddhie's and my blog. Thanks, its always such a pleasure to hear from you.
Best wishes..always.
"Peace be with you"
That is a lovely custom and if we can't say it in church to each other at least we can say it in our cyber circle: peace be with you.
And also with you, my friend.
My dear CC,
I know what you mean. That is why I've always signed off ...
Peace and love,
- Joe.
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