Sunday, December 28, 2008

The Svelte St. Nick






















These painted panels we viewed at the La Salette Shrine in Attleboro, Mass. depicting the history of the Claus, were a nice break from the astonishing easy pop of all the lights. My mother and I both tripped while climbing the staircase that led up the hill in the zigzagging fashion the apparation of Mary was reported to take in the French Alps.

Russell went up the 28 stairs before the crucifix on his knees, shaking his butt, and I only caught him towards the end. I hope this amused Jesus more than it offended him. Wasn't he the one who bid us to "suffer the little children." Suffer I did. But I also notice, the young one has to suffer me and all my sanctimony, hang ups, self-importance, baseless anxiety, and pride.

3 comments:

Ian W. said...

Oh yay, you made it! It's a strange place, isn't it?

amarilla said...

Refreshingly strange. Leaves me wondering whose will and obsession lies behind it.

Bluebird of Friendliness said...

I love the room with all the creches, but the tomb of the resurrection kind of freaks me out. They had a Trans-Siberian Orchestra tribute band when I went on Saturday night. Glad you got a chance to go!