parliament & advent reflections

I didn't vote for Stephen Harper in our recent Canadian election, so technically I am part of the silent majority (62%) who would prefer another option. But I was happy to recognize the democratic process that gave him a minority government. However, I also think the Liberals and NDP are a bit disingenuous by saying they would never support a coalition during the electioneering period. Many countries around the world function with coalitions, why not Canada? But flip flopping on their public statements just reminds me again of the core issue in our current human condition -- self-centredness.

So that leads me back to Kurelek again...

The sky is starless and snow threatens again. In the dark river below a boom of logs floats. Across the river a light shines in the tower of the capital, announcing to the country that its representatives are inside deliberating.

As William fumbles his way through the trees in his dream he almost trips over the body of a young man in a green army sleeping bag. William often daydreamed of hoboing around the country when he was old enough; he now recognizes himself as the young man Bill, trying to save money by sleeping in the open.

Before he has a chance to stdy Bill closely, he sees light approaching. He hides to watch what will happen. It is Mary carrying a lantern in one hand, her other arm free to cradle her Child. She stops when she sees the sleeping figure and kneels beside it, putting down her lamp. She lets the Child stretch forth His little hand and gently touch the forehead of the sleeper. Bill frowns and mumbles, "Buzz off, will you!" He is proud of his young manhood, of going where he pleases, of owing no one anything.

"That can't be me. I'll never reject Him!" William cried out so loudly he woke himself up. In his dreams he wanted everyone to recognize and accept the Child. But was he really ready to give up his dream of independence? He stared at the ceiling a long time wondering about himself and about the people on the hill. What if the Child reached out and touched them?