archangels – Just East Of Crazy Land

Tonight
is the night before I lost you, dearest,
two years ago
when you burst from my womb
and were launched straight into Heaven.

Two years ago tonight,
it was Michealmas
and perhaps your passing the next day
was accompanied by him–
this warrior angel
this strong protector—
to carry you on high
in arms safe and loving as your daddy’s.

Great angel,
protect my spirit now
and give me the courage to face the night,
knowing what tomorrow brings.

Help me be brave enough
to feel the pain of loss
yet again,
ever still,
but also to live with the simplicity of my children
who know how to rejoice in each moment
and sing Christmas carols with gusto
no matter what the season.
Sufficient for the day
is the joy thereof.

Here are the angels my kids had fun making today for the feast day of the three archangels, St Michael, St Gabriel and St Raphael. We talked about their biblical stories and their special jobs (protection from evil, healing and safe journeys, messages of salvation from God) and read the prayers asking for their intercession.

Then we looked at art of the archangels online, and discovered what their special symbols are (sword and shield, fish and walking staff, lillies and scroll). The variety of styles of angelic art was quite impressive…from stained glass to pastel sketches, metal statues to Eastern Icons, and more. The one that made the girls laugh was the Japanese anime angel Gabriel. “It’s a Pokemon angel!” they declared gleefully.

Finally, we made some angels of our own. St Gabriel was the most popular today!