STORIES AROUND THE TABLE

This year's Lenten Devotional features stories from parishioners about times they spiritually connected around the table with a loved one. We hope these stories invite you to reflect on times you experienced meaningful connection or the presence of The Spirit through the sharing of food and around the table.

It Gives a Lovely Light

by Don Cowles


March 21, 2023

“Edna's,” replied the hotel desk clerk.


Jane and I had arrived at our hotel in Halifax, Nova Scotia, for a long-anticipated trip to Canada’s maritime provinces. It was time for dinner, and we had asked for recommendations.


“Why, Edna’s?”, we asked. “It’s all about the hospitality; you’ll see,” replied the friendly clerk. “What about the food?”, we ventured. “Great. You’ll see,” the reply. “What about reservations?”, we asked. “Just go; you’ll see.”


So, we walked to Edna's, passing tourists at the historic British citadel and guests at the Salvation Army food pantry.  


Edna’s entrance was plain, yet candles flickered within. A hostess invited us to seats at the bar until a table was ready—or to enjoy our meals there. At the bar, the hostess welcomed with “how might I serve you?”. She led us through the menu, and we ordered. The woman who brought our meals paused to chat.


Jane and I experienced the promised Edna hospitality. What was it? We felt nurtured, as well as fed.


On the way out, we asked a passing hostess to explain the words scrolled across the wall—“It gives a lovely light”.


Oh, she joyfully replied, it’s from Edna St. Vincent Millay’s poem—and she quoted:


My candle burns at both ends;

It will not last the night.

But, ah, my foes, and, oh, my friends—

It gives a lovely light.


And, she added, “This place is owned and operated by women—for you.”


“Let your light so shine . . .,” Jesus encourages all of us in Matthew 5:16. Amen. 

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