Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
Last week felt tumultuous on some levels. Maybe it was dredging up stories from hard times, despite the clear narrative of God’s love throughout. Maybe it was the effort involved in wrapping my unfit brain muscles around the new truth I am learning about the Bible and this great God I serve. Maybe it was the slower pace at work hindering my momentum, and the ensuing struggle with motivation to commit my heart there rather than here.
Regardless, it has been a quiet, gentle weekend. Salve to a raw soul. On Friday night, I watched an old Audrey Hepburn with my mom. We discussed our thoughts on our class and why the law does not contradict the promise of God. I then had a late-night exercise session with to my circa 1983 Callanetics video.
Yesterday, I went on a walk to think and pray. It was a stunning summer-like day and even though I planned to turn around at the bridge, I found myself walking to the beach, sorting through thoughts that have been lingering for a few years. I intended to let them go and get closure, but instead opened up a dialogue with God that will continue on until they reach a natural end. I came home and soaked my body in the tub, while rereading parts of a book that challenged me. I read some of it to Cole too, while he feigned disinterest. Then we played Life, best two out of three games, and both cheated… just a little bit. We watched a kids movie and a British sitcom, and laughed together.
I slept until 10:00 this morning and threw some clothes on to meet my friend, Kristi, at my favorite Peet’s. It’s the one on MacArthur with the tables gathered around the fountain. I sipped a chai latte while my shoulders toasted in the sun. We spent three lazy hours getting caught up on life and family and work. She got bangs and new sunglasses, and looked fantastic. She is finally getting over the cold that took her down – just in time for her trip to New York, when I will be staying at her house, watching her dogs, and ensuring enjoyment of the pool and jacuzzi.
It is a beautiful day. My soul feels as quiet as my small tortoise hibernating beneath the mossy ground. I think I might ask Cole to join me for a game of miniature golf. I know he’s getting older and I’m no longer his favorite person to spend time with, but there are these windows of connection that can be flung open from time to time for fresh air and a chance to enjoy the sweetness of a November summer.
where waves grow sweet 
I am so thankful that you are refreshed! So sorry I didn’t call you back, I came home from church and needed to immerse myself in grading. But I had an epiphany about you at church this morning, and I thought this would be a good place to land that epiphany since it is about you and this is your blog.
The sermon was about the prodigal son this morning. We all know that God welcomes us back no matter what, but can we really receive that grace? Really really really??? I think back to your last few postings and I think that not only has God been ever steadfast by you in the darkest of darknesses, but that you were ready and open to receive His love when the time came. You are His loving daughter because there was no darkness too far for Him to shine light on, and find you. I thank God that you receive His love so well. Big hugs!!
By: Sarah on November 14, 2010
at 6:58 pm
No worries! So glad you got some grading done. Cole and I ended up going to play miniature golf and seeing Red (which I loved)… a great way to wrap up the weekend.
By: karanoel on November 15, 2010
at 7:02 pm
How lovely!
I think you are Cole’s favorite person to be with, even still.
By: Karen on November 22, 2010
at 5:58 pm
Well, I’m not so sure I’m his favorite person anymore, but we did have a grand time tonight watching old episodes of Psych & Monk. It’s now very late and I have work tomorrow, but it was worth it. 🙂
By: karanoel on November 24, 2010
at 12:26 am