#281 A Virtuous Woman- Jabari Asim

#281 A Virtuous Woman- Jabari Asim

 In the second story of this collection (A Taste of Honey), we see the young political activist, Gabriel, waiting outside a the funeral of a community leader to distribute leaflets about a big meeting. He is taken over by the sound of an angelic singing voice that is “Something like God,” floating from inside. That voice is Rose.

That was Rose’s first public performance in many years. Her husband, Paul, is abusive and controlling and not inclined to allow his wife to do anything publically. But this was a special occasion, and he knew nothing could stop her. Now Paul has disappeared and Rose feels liberated. Like the story of creation in Genesis, Rose’s new life is created in six days, on Sunday she prays.

Fate brings Gabriel and Rose together. Music is entwined in politics, is enmeshed in life. “Okay, Lord, you’ve given me a sign…Now I need a way.”

I really love the way these stories have come together, especially the nice moment when Gabriel recognized the meaning behind Crispus’ name.

Notable Passage: “…patience could easily decline into dangerous passivity.”

Rating: 8-8-8-8 Total=32