Paternoster is a place to collect thoughts, reflect. The sea and the wind are the only sounds to be heard in this sunny cloister today as I reflect on a thought that has troubled me for some time.
Almost every encounter on such a journey as we have had here in South Africa, is transient. Like the manna that fell on the desert. Those familiar with this epic story of the Hebrew exodus from Egypt, will recall the miraculous appearance of a dew-like substance on the desert floor every morning. A miracle for those who believe in miracles, but what is most striking is the instruction given to the people. They must “go out and collect the ration for the day … and no one may keep any of it for tomorrow”.
I am persuaded that the gift in so many of these transient encounters is, like the manna from heaven, just for this day. So often we are tempted to collect them like souvenirs for the mantle-piece of our minds or to invest them with a future they simply do not have. To gratify something in ourselves. Disappointment too often follows. Some weeks ago in Plettenberg, I saw something of this in the face of a lady called Virginia.
She was hesitant
Her eyes wearing a wary look
Like a trench coat against the wind and rain of
Gilded promises
Carried by the white man
With the white hair
Sipping his breakfast tea.
I am chastened by these thoughts. Often I have wanted to collect the manna and store it for the morrow. Those in the exodus story who did so found this delicate food had become rotten and foul-smelling.
I am challenged to unwrap the encounter that is meant for today, fully enjoy it, fully honour it, and then move on. The mantle-piece of my mind is far too cluttered!
On the food and wine front! The most satisfying Cape Town eatery, taking into account food quality, the wine list, value for rand, service, and an astonishing view of Table Mountain from the tables outside, is Societi on Orange Street off Buitensingel.
Dare I say it, manna from heaven!!!
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