I thought of Madeleine this weekend as I got out of town for a camping trip. On Saturday night a group of us stood on the banks of the Wenatchee River and looked at the canopy of a million stars above us. Earlier this summer I read "Many Waters" by L'Engle in which stars play a large roll. The stars are constantly singing out truth, according to L'Engle, singing over us. If only we could learn to stop and listen, to re-learn the ancient language in which they speak.
Reading "Many Waters" and contemplating the wisdom of the stars inspired me to write my own song about the story. So I will share it here is my tribute to Madeleine L'Engle's life and the truth that she has helped me to see.
Why We Are Here by Bree Aseltine
I went out walking in the wilderness
And the stars were chiming over head
The were speaking in an old unfamiliar language
But still I knew every word
Some how I ended up in some else's stories
Wandering in the desert, far from home
And as the strange in this foreign land
I had to learn to change my hard, hard heart
To believe in the impossible, that is why we are here
To know love that cannot be quenched, that is why we are here
When I looked up out of my own despair
Looking up into the clear night sky
I heard the stars singing over us
fear not sweet child and wait patiently
Thank you, Madeleine, and rest in peace.
4 comments:
I've heard so many wonderful things about this author/woman that I know that next time I am at the library I am going to pick up one of her works. She clearly has inspired many.
Your poem was a lovely tribute to her! :)
thanks for sharing this, bree. madeleine l'engle is certainly worth this tribute and at least ten thousand more. i was reminded recently of another reference she made about stars...that the word "disaster" means literally, to be separated from the stars. they do shine over us, don't they? and when we are in the midst of crisis, it seems like going somewhere where one can see the stars might be the most noble attempt at remembering that we are connected to something much greater than ourselves.
Hi Bree,
I don't know if I've ever mentioned this, but I subscribe to your blog and always enjoy your posts.
Your poem is so beautiful, I really love it. I couldn't not leave a comment to say so :)
Best,
Gwen
Thank you for sharing this, Bree.
After having just returned from vacation today, I did not know about Madeleine's passing until visiting your blog this afternoon. I am sad that she is gone, but so thankful for all the incredible works & wisdom she left us.
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