The Exquisite Hour

"When we have done our best, we should wait the result in peace."
- Sir John Lubbock

Woman in White, Pablo Picasso, 1923
Oil, water-based paint, and crayon on canvas
Estate of Pablo Picasso 

My family is in a waiting period right now.  At this moment, we do not even know the path that we must travel, but either path will be difficult. 


A precious young life hangs in the balance, awaiting the miracle of a double lung transplant. Time is of the essence, and yet we know we cannot pray for tragedy to befall another family.


My heart aches for this young man, his wife, his mother and father, and his brother. No one should have to endure this pain. 


We can only pray for strength to endure either path. 


A gift arrived today from a dear friend, Tess, the brilliant poet from
 Life at Willow Manor
and with her permission, I share it with you. Thank you, Tess. 


It's not the magic of a simple answer to the unbearable question, "What will happen?" but serves as a peace-giving interlude while we wait for the path to unfold before us...as we await the exquisite hour.


This is soprano Susan Graham performing" Reynaldo Hahn's "L'Heure exquise". This composition is set to the poetry of Paul Verlaine, who reportedly wept when he heard it first. Pianist Roger Vignoles provides the accompaniment.

This composition is lambent with peace and hope...something precious and rare in hospital waiting rooms around the world. 


I dedicate this to all those who wait today. 


Translation of text:
The white moon
Shines in the woods;
Each branch
Share one vote
Under the arbor ...
O beloved.

The pond reflects,
Deep mirror
Silhouette
Black Willow
Where the wind cries ...
Dream, it's time.

A vast and tender
Appeasement
Seems to descend
The firmament
Iridescent as the moon ...
It is the exquisite hour.