“Two stones cannot occupy the same place, but two fragrances can.” – Sufi saying

Two fragrances.
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Mary Magdalene breaks open the costly perfume
and anoints the feet of Jesus
wiping his feet with her hair.

And the whole house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume,
preparing him for his burial.

“And Mary Magdalene and the other Mary remained standing there in front of the tomb.” – Matthew 27:61

Remained. There.

Early in the morning …
hands full of prepared perfumes and ointments,
spices to honour his body in death
yet meeting the mysterious energy of living presence.

Two fragrances.
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Perfume and Spices.
the fragrances of love,
ointments of anointing.
Life and death and life beyond death.

I hope sometime this day
you take your thumb
and trace a perfumed mark of Love
on your hand or cheek,
feet or forehead.

Remember, you are loved.
And Love remains.

See also: Tuesday of Holy Week. Self-Giving Love