Alleluia

There is a word that is one part joy, one part gratitude and one part relief: alleluia.

Alleluia can mean: We arrived home safely. Or, it's about time!
Alleluia can mean: I am seriously confused but will listen. Or, we agree to disagree!
Alleluia can mean: We are so fortunate to live in this place and time. Or, this country is beautiful!
Alleluia can mean: The days are lengthening and flowers blooming. Or, there is magic in that sunset!
Alleluia can mean: I missed you so much. Or, I am so happy to know you!
Alleluia can mean: I have made it through another day. Or, I have life and I am loved!
Alleluia can mean: There is so much to do today. Or, I finished that project!
Alleluia can mean: My friends are near me. Or, I have known amazing people!
Alleluia can mean: The rain came, and the gardens will grow. Or, I wrote a poem today!
Alleluia can mean: I am happy, I am thankful, I am ok. Or, we are going to be fine!

In Puerto Rico, I remember hearing alleluia as a response in daily conversation. Your car broke down but then re-started? Alleluia. Your mother was in hospital but returned home after treatment or surgery? Alleluia. The hurricane blew through the island causing damage but no one was hurt? Alleluia. Your son found a job? Alleluia. Your daughter returned after completing her studies in the US? Alleluia. If you are hurt, or sick, in trouble or confused, people will say to you, ay bendito, or "oh blessed one".  It means: You are accompanied in your pain, your sorrow, your discomfort, until there is a resolution, until we can say again, alleluia!

I have been in pain, in sorrow, in discomfort, as have people around me whom I love. Resolution is not always tangible, concrete, visible, perfect or predictable. Sometimes it is fleeting, but it has been felt. And today I say, with all my heart, alleluia.