In 1492 during a bitter feud between two rival families. One family, on the run, found shelter in chapel. The other family were pressing in upon them. They surrounded the chapel.
during those closing moments, the pursuing family head realised the futility of the war between the families. The family and people inside the chapel cowered and failed to trust the promise of peace offered to them. They remained.
In a final attempt to reconcile the Earl himself, the one in charge went to the door of the chapel. He cut a hole in it. Realising that the family behind the door knew not his intentions nor could he persuade them through his words of his genuine attempt for reconciliation thrust his own arm through the door offering a hand, or arm, of peace.
In a moment of vulnerability the Earl of Kildare's arm lay open for attack or open for grabbing a chance for peace. The Earl of Ormond and his army who were stuck inside saw his nemesis' arm and chose the latter.
To this day the term 'chance your arm' has been coined to suggest acts of bravery, or great risk, to achieve something worthwhile.
This trip seems more than just a work trip. It’s more than just a visit to Pakistan. It’s about a journey into the very heart, for me, of trust, trusting and forgiveness. Perhaps even a time to chance my own arm?
No comments:
Post a Comment