Last evening I sat in my office preparing to meet with a couple about their upcoming wedding. The building was quiet and I could hear the street noises through the open window. As I looked around the room I realized that I was surrounded by my story. Little things that speak of a time and place, people and situations that have shaped who I am. Each piece brings to mind something or someone from my journey and blessings flood my soul.
The picture of the tree growing, against all odds, beside the light pole takes me back to my internship year and the lessons I learned in that place.
The memory box, filled with cards and letters from people who have crossed my path and whose story I have been invited to be part of reminds me of the many who have been the presence of Christ for me.
The stuffed animals and puppets that line my shelves bring to mind the children who have taught me about trust and love, inclusion and joy!
The candle of five people in a circle with arms enfolding the other lifts up for me the sisters in faith who have been part of my circle of care and encouragement.
The tea cup, given to me by a member of one of my churches at a covenanting speaks of the many tables I have been privileged to sit at and the stories that have been woven into mine.
The embroidery on my walls connect me with the ancestors who blazed the trail before me and whose presence guides my way.
The blankets on the back of the sofa and the prayer shawls on the rack in the corner speak of the warmth, love, care and compassion that is present in the community that surrounds me.
Even the mess on my desk speaks of who I am, energized by the many things that are being created in this place!
I finish my walk down memory lane and there is such a sense of peace in my soul. The road has been filled with mountains and valleys, good and bad, sorrow and joy. In the midst of that the constant has been the people who have shared the journey with me and in whom I have experienced the presence of the divine. And the best part is that the story is not over! Continually there are things added to the shelves, or walls or desk that add to the mosaic and the picture becomes even more beautiful!
There is an old Hymn that goes
“Count your blessings, name them one by one.
Count your many blessings, see what God has done!”
Too often we don’t take the time to reflect on the blessings that surround us and get caught up in negativity that invades our beings. When we do that it can take over who we are and darkness fills our world. Today I invite you on a journey. Take a moment to walk down memory lane and open your eyes to the blessings along the way – blessings that are present even when the road is difficult.
Name them one by one and give thanks!
Blessings
Valerie
© 2016 Rev. Valerie Peyton Kingsbury. All Rights Reserved