The annual reunion of cookie women
takes place while preparations
for the infant’s arrival simmer
furiously and peak to a boil.
Readying for the event brings
a diversity of ingredients
mixed in love with a chrism
that holds the body together.
The hands of friends working
together as the cookie is
created for exchange, honor, and love
and the perfect gingerbread woman.
Joining together on the walk
through the gates the friends
find themselves enthralled
with the preparations of gold and silver.
Entering the mansion that
smells of cookies and cider,
chocolate, vanilla, and cinnamon,
incense created for the gathered body.
Listening to the music that fills
the quiet spaces with Joy and Angels
while the lilting conversations carried
by Martha and Mary pass peace.
Exchanging gifts with each other,
offering a new creation to all
with a promise to take
the full plate home to loved ones.
Setting aside the plates while
reaching for a precious teacup, that is
filled with the perfume of cider and wine
comingled with mystery.
A liturgy created by the cookie women
to prepare for a new covenant
and to celebrate the beginning
of a new relationship.
(c) 2009
Terri Stewart
