Starting my Next Life Adventure.

I have spent a lot of time on the road from Indianapolis to New Orleans, then Chicago, and now Ohio and what I have learned is to appreciate the spring flowers and flowering trees and avoid the pot holes.

I think we all learn this over time in our lives to stop and notice nature in full bloom around us, or the trees whispering in the wind, or the beautiful Fall colors. We also learn about the damage of hitting a pot hole with our car or in other aspects of life; and how we have to navigate repairs when damage is done.

I recently enjoyed fellowship in community with the Upper Room Spiritual Academy folks on a second of three gatherings in a three year Academy. I am learning that Christ in all the love offered from God’s abundance, brings me to a place of love and fellowship even with those I might not consider as family at first. You know the ones, when you are too busy to notice, but then you sit and listen and learn how much you have in common with your hopes, fears, and struggles in life? Oh you haven’t experienced this yet? May I highly recommend slowing down and listening to those around you for a time as part of your Lenten contemplation practice and Easter celebrations, and in the Ordinary time.

We are too quick to dismiss others and live in lonely, solitary lives these days and we believe that sitting on the front porch in the rocker and listening to the stories of others is a thing of the past. Well I am here to say that does not have to be the case at all. I dare you to look and listen for the stories of those you love, and those you may even fear or avoid. Just listen, without judgment and without comment. You may be surprised at the flowers that tend to grow from such experiences and the pot holes that are filled and produce smoother pathways in your life. Have fun with it.