Last fall when we re-sodded the back yard, we left our garden swing leaning up against the side of the house. This spring I suggested, “Let’s give that old swing away. We never use it.”
Tom frowned, “Maybe.“
A few weeks later, I stood on our freshly painted deck and suggested, “Let’s try that old swing here. We could roll out the awning and enjoy the rain.”
Tom surveyed the deck, shook his head and said, “Swing’s pretty big, but we’ll try it.”
Son Dave carried the swing round to the deck. Once in place, I flopped down on it. “Yes,” I said. “This is good. It just needs a few flowers.”
Today, our long-forgotten swing brings a patch of paradise to our home. A colorful basket of geraniums and petunias hangs in one corner. Purple and white lavatera and clematis peek through the railing. Flowers spill from the mouth of our old chiminea, another relic we hadn’t used in years. Bright red geraniums are growing from its chimney. Overhead, white fluffy clouds sail slowly by. In every direction God’s beauty shines radiantly in the summer sun.
Already I’ve spent hours in that swing, meditating, writing, reading or visiting with friends and family. For the first time since we moved to Peterborough five years ago, I feel as if I have truly come home.
I believe God knew what I needed and offered it. The deck, the swing, the chiminea, had all been with us for many years. They have come together with my love of flowers to create my summer sanctuary. I didn’t plan, it but I love it. Friends tell me I’ve slowed down a little. I agree. Each day I step away from the world to my sanctuary. When I return, life feels better, more peaceful, more precious. I give God thanks every day for this blessing.
Today I’m thinking about you. I wish for you a sanctuary tailored to your needs. I didn’t plan mine. It feels as if it just happened. But of course it didn’t. I suggest you keep your heart open for a quiet place, inside or outside. In this crazy world, we need our sanctuaries, where recognizing God’s presence. feels easier. It needn’t cost much. Perhaps just repurposing things you already have. I suggest you join with God in creating your special place, your peaceful place, your summer sanctuary.
Today’s Faith by Rev. Janet Stobie
For more Reflections visit www.janetstobie.com.
