How quickly time slips past. My mini-Sabbatical is more
than half over, and my week of quiet was definitely finished the instant Eric
and Michelle stepped through the door on Friday. As much as I love them and
love having them with me, it was a relief to hug them good-bye today.
I can’t even guess how many hours I wasted last week (and
today, after church) watching Wimbledon. I have managed to get out once a day to
walk. I have prayed but not nearly as much as I had hoped.
After being away from home, some things have become more
clear to me. I have missed Keith, our children and their families, and our dog
Penny (although I’ve spent time with all of them while here). I have missed
Massey’s Chapel more than I thought I would. I am itching to be back in the
pulpit, and my next three sermons are ready. I have missed being involved in members' lives.
What I have not missed is the cohousing community in which
I live, and this needs some thought and prayer.
I love so many things about it and dislike other things (as with all of
life, I suppose). I have been relieved to be away from the constant drama, gossip,
and – as Keith calls it – “forced conviviality.” Now that I serve a church that
does not indulge much in those things, I don’t welcome them in the rest of my
life, either.
Funny, when I hatched the idea of a mini-Sabbatical back in
November, I thought I needed a break from church because I was weary from dealing
with the threat of Covid and from the heavy news of church disaffiliations. By
the time June rolled around, I was desperate to be away from Elderberry. I also
know how “down” I get in July and August – an annual occurrence that happens
because of the oppressive heat, my inability to play tennis in the heat, and
the feeling of being trapped indoors.
What could be better than living for a whole month in a
very cool (literally) and beautiful place? I practically skipped to church and
back today in 60-degree weather. The divine gifts I have received since being
here have tended to be small, surprising, and refreshing.
My sister arrives Tuesday, and her presence will be another gift from God.
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