Awe, Friendship, Solitude

I find solace in nature, where I can experience awe and approach common spaces with curiosity and openness to new discoveries. Recently, I went on a trip with my longtime friend and sister, Sandy. We reminisced about our children’s ages, pregnancies, and work history to count the years we’ve been friends.

During our stay, we had spontaneous conversations with campground attendants and enjoyed venturing down unplanned roads. Being surrounded by nature and the beautiful scenery aided in our healing process. While listening to my podcast on practicing awe and using my prayer app, I realized that I can practice solitude, silence, and stillness regardless of my location. The best part of this story is that I knew of this location because my dear friend Kris took me to the “Blue Bird” as a gift of friendship. Her gift to me multiplying. Isn’t that what love does for us? It spills out and restores in ways we can’t imagine or anticipate.

I felt so happy after spending time at our place on the York River, and I carried that feeling home with me. Walking in my PJs with my coffee and prayer guide, I found joy in the simple things on my street. I was so focused on the beauty around me that even the sound of the trash truck driving by made me smile. It seemed like someone was using dryer sheets to mask the trash smell, and that made me laugh. Everywhere I looked, there were little miracles and signs of hope. I even thought about my friend who had moved to Wilmington and wondered how they were doing in their new home and neighborhood. As I enjoyed the smell of honeysuckle and the rain on my skin, I felt grateful for all the good things in my life. I brought a little bit of that happiness home with me to enjoy throughout the day. Thank you, God.