These are the opening words to the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, a popular Chinese novel dating to the 14th century and was attributed to the playwright Luo Guangzhong. Indeed, these words prove to be a prophetic summary to the history of China, a history oscillating between deep divisions that enabled corruption to fester in society, and oppressive unities that purchased oneness at the price of warfare and policing.

My old religion professor taught me that sacred spaces are, at their most basic, defined by barriers and taboo. The ordinary things of the world cannot enter them. We speak of them rarely and reverently. Access is limited.

Although my sacred is marked profane, let my profanity be considered holy.Would the curse words of my mouth and the rage-filled meditations of my heartSome way, somehow, be pleasing to You.

I grew up hearing many sermons about siblinghood in the Church. Although I participated in youth ministries, young adult ministries, and women’s bible study groups throughout my life, I never felt like I had experienced sisterhood until I joined an Asian-interest sorority.

Indigo clouds partedThe scarlet moonHad cavernsAnd soonIts bloody seasWould flood BabylonNo one could seeThe gaze of God