Thoughts from the Priest

The Burst Bubble

TUNTREET

It is chilly outside. Full moon. The snow rests in thin layers on the ground. The trees are covered in frost. I start shuddering if I stop moving.

Few people at the shops. People look anxious, keeping their distance. Their faces are covered with masks. Their eyes are barely visible. In their glance, I feel pain, loneliness. Thoughts on what the future will bring.

For how long must this last? I long for the south, to the heat. I am fed up with being covered. I want loving hugs and friendly smiles. People laughing and enjoying themselves. Closeness. I am alone. I try to lift my spirits. Be constructive. Think positive. Take one day at a time. Be present. Focus. Persevere.

I have food, clothes and people who care about me. Family and friends. Colleagues and acquaintances. I am not alone, even though it feels like it. I live in a country where the government wants to provide for us.

I live in a bubble. That is what it feels like. It is a way to cope. Isolation. Segregation. Strength in solitude. I watch TV-shows on the internet. They take me to other places. To other ages.

I am a priest. I believe in closeness. I believe in God. I believe in people. I am not alone. There is a verse in the Book: “You have hedged me behind and before, And laid your Your hand upon me.”

The moon yet shines. It is round and full. Soon comes the sun. A bird sings, though it is only January and many minus degrees. The birds fly in flocks. There are many people out and about. If I smile, maybe I will get a smile in return.

Brighter days are yet to come. Surely, spring will show itself. Nothing lasts, nor will this. In time, we can embrace each other again. I am reminded by an old stanza from a song:

Raise your head, young one. If a hope or two are gone. If a new one glimpses in your eye, soon comes a shimmer from on high.

Sigurd Bakke

Studentpriest NMBU

Translated by: Benjamin Alexander Faulkner

Sigurd A. Bakke is the student priest at NMBU. You will find Sigurd’s office in the basement to the left in Urbygningen. The student priest is available if you should need somebody to talk to. He is available for drop-ins on wednesdays 11:00-15:00, and is also available for appointments on other days. Appointments can be made to sigurd.bakke@as.kommune.no