it seems to be the
word of the moment
i’m seeing it everywhere
everyone who’s anyone
is using it, saying it
i never like to overuse
but i have always loved
this word, its meaning
it even sounds consequential
(you might say it “resonates”)
when spoken aloud
resonance
there are a few different definitions
but the one currently being highlighted
has to do with a relational
reaction to someone or something
an almost visceral experience
“producing a positive feeling,
emotional response, or opinion”
“a feeling, thought, or memory that
a piece of writing, music, etc gives you”
vibration
reverberation
resonance
for me the word conjures up
catholic churches and cathedrals
those i’ve attended in the states and
those i’ve visited while living abroad
places of quiet grandeur
filled with healing resonance
and powerful subtle energy
it’s interesting that i happen to
be writing this post on ash wednesday
a holy day that resonates with many
the beginning of the lenten season
and such a significant part of my youth
fasting and abstinence
ashes on one’s forehead
“to dust you shall return”
i still like to step just inside
the door, away from whatever’s
going on in the outside world
as i breathe in the peacefulness
of the sanctuary, memories and
wistful feelings flood through me
i remember the roman catholic mass
its intrinsic and reverent beauty
the incense, the latin chants,
the priest’s vestments, the rituals
i no longer attend mass but i still
experience the hushed mystery
whenever i enter a cathedral
it’s something that will probably always
create a sense of resonance within me
