The Gift of Time

In a couple of weeks I will be leading a retreat at Pilgrim Heights, in Mountour, IA. It is a peaceful spot in which to give yourself the gift of time. Beautiful grounds with a variety of nature  trails, a lake, and a quiet energy that never fails to renew those who visit.  It carries the spirit of all those who have  gathered over the years for camp, family reunions, weddings and time alone to refresh their bodies and souls.

In our time together I hope to help each participant set aside for the moment the stress that often accompanies us through the day. To explore and awaken  in them the rich resources that can reset their compass for richer days ahead.

In my own life I find it so easy to get caught up in whatever difficulties and drama surround me each day that frequently I lose sense of who I am, and what am able to do and be.

We will guided in this time together with sources provided by two creative works by Sue Monk Kidd. We will watch the movie "Secret Life of Bees" in which fictitious characters reveal in their relationships the struggles of growing as human beings and developing friendships which gives them the capacity to offer sanctuary and time to heal. For reflection and discussion we will read "Firstlight" the author's own journey from work as a compassionate and caring nurse to writer.

Her insights and questions will I hope provoke in us the courage to confront some of the bold and ordinary questions we face daily.

For your reflection today I invite you to spend a few moments with this quote from "Firstlight".

"There are so many wonderful gifts I can give those I love, but the one that lingers when all others are gone, the one that knits  the brightest threads into life is the gift of time - the gift of one's self."

How might our lives be different if we allowed this concept to guide our life today. If you are reading this Blog I invite you to share your thoughts with us.