In shelter and shadow

By Rev. Andy Fleming, Associate Chaplain

Along with not continuing learning to play music when I was a child, the other regret I have is not learning a language (some would suggest I could better learn English!?!?). Languages are such a gift, and we are blessed at Radford to have an excellent Language department that willingly goes above simply teaching to offer opportunities to immerse oneself in the cultures where the languages are spoken. Students from Pre-K to Year 12 are provided these opportunities.

Languages fascinate me in the way they express sentiments and meanings that the English language doesn’t. For instance, the Ancient Greek language has eight words to describe the type of love one may be giving or experiencing, where the English language simply uses ‘love’ to encapsulate all types.

There is an Irish proverb, “Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine.” This proverb translates literally to, "people live in each other’s shadows", and means, we are shielded from the sun by each other; we rely on

each other for shelter.

This saying intimates how we all need other people. Sometimes to be shielded in our circumstances and other times to be protected from adversity. At the same time, we often avoid admitting to relying on another person or like that we have to. Our pride results in not asking for assistance when we require help, or we refuse help when it's offered.

However, whether we admit it or not, we are interdependent creatures, with each other and the wider world. My hope for us here at Radford is that within our community we look out for and support each other, accepting this support willingly and gratefully, and that in turn, together we can look to offer support to the wider community.


A prayer of shelter and shadow, by Pádraig ó Tuama

We know that sometimes we are alone,

and sometimes we are in community

Sometimes we are in shadow,

and sometimes we are surrounded by shelter.

Sometimes we feel like exiles –

in our land, in our languages and in our bodies.

And sometimes we feel surrounded by welcome.

As we seek to be human together, may we share the things that do not fade:

generosity, truth-telling, silence, respect and love.

And may the power we share

be for the good of all.

We honour God, the source of this rich life.

And we honour each other, story-full and lovely.

Whether in our shadow or in our shelter,

may we live well

and fully

with each other.

Amen

Go in peace,

Rev. Andy