In Paris’s Notre Dame Cathedral
In August 1976,
It seems so long ago.
Five family members sat together,
Side by side, quiet, respectful, full of awe
Gazing at the architecture from our crowded pew.
Citizens of the world joined us
Filling every inch of space
Some sat cross-legged near the altar
Others hunched down in the aisles,
Their babies and backpacks secure.
An organ crescendo awakened our souls,
Filling every human heart with peace,
Igniting emotions of love and respect for all.
My husband spoke quietly, almost reverently,
“Why do we have wars?”
He demanded of the world that day.
In Paris’s Notre Dame Cathedral,
In August 1976.