Originally
the word symbol
was a tangible thing to
hold in your hand
called tessera hospitalis.
History says
a small biscuit-like tile
was offered upon entering
a home where the
host and the guest
together
broke it in half -
evermore assuring
a welcome when
the halves became
joined once more.
Someone said in eulogy -
If you were ever part
of his life you were
forever part of his life.
Sometimes the pattern
and broken edge don't
match -
but sugar grains
and salt remains
can be used to mortar
mosaics.
*Homeless Man - the documentary about Rich Mullins mentions this tidbit about him. I learned about the tessera hospitals from Bruce Herman at Kindlingsfest 2014. Attribution….
