#6: Stability
During my forties
we have lived in one house.
One.
In my thirties I lived in six places
and in my twenties, ten.
I have lived in this place long enough to watch the cleome come back.
To know that if you are patient and look around the garden,
you might find a flower that has its next ring of petals springing open
right this minute.
This man has sat across from me at the table
(on this particular day, proud of the beautiful plate he has arranged)
with the same silly boy beside him
the whole time.
When it is Sunday afternoon, and the calendar says
we are free for the rest of that day
we know exactly where to look for a relaxing diversion.
Several somewheres like that,
all within a hop, a skip and a jump.
(Or a really quick car ride.)
The rhythm of this life,
both predictable and changing
has been a balm to me.
"The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning.
Great is Your faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22-23
Ahhh Tracy - I can so identify with this one. We moved often, sometimes to a place where I knew not one person. Not one. Except for my husband and children. And always that was enough. But the staying in one place long enough for there to be more than just the husband and children, that's a comfort. blessings, marlene
ReplyDeleteThank you for the scripture reference...neede the reminder.
ReplyDeleteCathy Benton
hmm, we have lied in this house for over 30 years, so let's just say I have spent several decades of my life here. Many, many memories. I love seeing your daily life, really special!! And those cleome pics are just wonderful!!
ReplyDeleteThis is just lovely, as always!! I esp love the pic of Lee w/ his food. He really does look quite proud of himself!! :-)
ReplyDeleteyikes!! 16 moves in 20 years?!? I can't even imagine ...
ReplyDelete