Fr Don’s Blog: Viva la Vida
| Inspired by the Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo, whose final painting was produced while she faced severe illness and tremendous pain, Chris Martin, lead singer of Coldplay, entitled his 2008 hit with the same phrase contained in her art piece, “Viva la Vida.” It translates as “long live life.” He was impressed by the painter’s bold courage in suffering and wanted others to find hope in times of despair. |
| Many people find the song’s lyrics thought-provoking or even disturbing: “I used to rule the world; seas would rise when I gave the word. Now in the morning, I sleep alone, sweep the streets I used to own…I hear Jerusalem bells a ringin’ while Roman calvary choirs are singin’. For some reason I can’t explain, I know Saint Peter won’t call my name. There was never an honest word; but that was when I ruled the world.” |
| Though the words give homage to an earthly monarch who lost his kingdom and immense worldly power, landing him in a dark and lonely ditch of despair, Martin commented that the song is less about an historical ruler than it is about anyone who has achieved something s/he thought great and then forfeited all of it, facing downfall with deep regret or humiliating defeat. He said it’s not as much about loss of earthly power as it is about loss of spiritual grace and divine assurance. Ironically, the lyrics, at the same time, celebrate survival and endurance beyond failure, which is central to the Christian principle of redemption. |
| There is a famous Eskimo proverb that states, “Yesterday is wood; tomorrow is ashes; only today does the fire burn brightly.” This image challenges us to rejoice in what lies before us as we participate in our present reality while accepting that much has been given to us and much has fallen away. In that, we release the haunting defeat and begin to find peace. Father Ron Rolheiser once wrote: “The highest compliment we can give to God, our Creator, is to thoroughly enjoy the gift of life. One should never look a gift universe in the mouth! The best way to pay for a beautiful moment is to enjoy it.” Martin’s reference to Jerusalem’s bells, Roman choirs, and Saint Peter’s invitation to heaven, beckons us to contemplate how we rebound from earthly setbacks so we can share in life beyond human suffering, material corruption, and inevitable death. |
| Saint Therese of Lisieux, who faced suffering and dying at a young age, put it this way: “May today there be peace within you. May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use the gifts you have received and pass on the love that has been given you. May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones and allow your soul the freedom to sing, to dance, and to bask in the sun. It is there for each and every one of you.” Even when life is short, we can embrace the spirit of “viva la vida” knowing that whatever darkness, loneliness, or downfall we experience here can be entrusted to God’s mercy. If we accept it, we will rise again. |
