Monday, June 13, 2011

Hallowed Places


There was a time when the empty places of life were scary to me.

Now, in a time when busyness reigns and cluttered thoughts are abundant, I find comfort in a little peace and quiet. I find myself seeking out hallowed places.

It could be on a walk in the woods, or in my room in the dusky-blue hours of morning.

These quiet times are few and far between right now. So I am searching for them as I walk in the noisy hallways of life....

The shuffling of kids, the visiting of friends, the caring for others...I wouldn't trade all these things for all the coffee in Colombia.

As a matter of fact being busy has been a blessing of sorts because not all of life has been easy.

The Mister and I have made some big changes this month as we said goodbye to our church family and begin a journey to a new place of worship. It was a difficult and painful decision, but one we feel certain is right for our growing-older family.

On the heels of this big change, I'm about to experience the flip-side of what I have done to a handful of friends six-times over: my dear friend is moving. 

She's been a gift in this season - just when I needed her most - and I now get to experience what its like on the opposite side of the moving van.

To say that I'm sad is...not enough.

But instead of fretting, I've tried very hard to be grateful for the people and things I've been given...if only for a time.

Still, I'm selfish enough to want more...

This week I have two extra kiddos in the Little Yellow House on the Hill. A six-year old and a three-year old. They are precious, and a big reminder that the babies we love grow quicker than our hearts and minds can comprehend. This summer is the last one of my Elementary school-children years. The Boy reminded me that there were only 5 summers left until he graduates high-school.

Five summers...and this ones half done.

In the midst of all this full and busy time, I've had a knee injury that just won't heal. I've been irritated that (among other foot injuries) this has slowed me down. But its also made me set aside workouts for things of more importance... for making breakfast, and choosing conversation...for friendships and sharing life with those who want me in it.

Love, Family, Friends, Church, Children, Health,

Gifts.  Hallowed places.

May I always choose them first....


8 comments:

Candace said...

Great thoughts, my friend. I long for those hallowed places but I have to remember that it's okay if they elude me for a time. The fullness is in itself a blessing.

Gretchen said...

This post just makes me love and miss you more, if that's possible. I'm sorry your friend is leaving. I know how hard that is. May you find peace in the Hallowed places. xxxooo

Deena said...

This is really a beautiful post! It may be one of my favorites that you have written. It's a challenge to remember the things that are most important. Have a blessed day!

Kim said...

Awww....love this post! Thank you! I didn't realize you had changed churches. I bet that was hard! Praying for you!!!

mer@lifeat7000feet said...

I relate to this post so much, Kellie. Sadness is a feeling I know well right now...

sadness over a shift in friendships...

sadness in realizing that a chapter in my mothering is coming to a close (the fun stuff I love to do in the summer is no longer fun for my growing children)...

and just a general blah-ness that I haven't felt in some time...

Thank you for the reminder to be grateful for all things. I'm hoping that this is only a season which opens the way to new gifts from the One who gives all.

Gretchen said...

Wow. We think on the same lines. I was just contemplating how change hurts, even when it is good change. AND I was just thinking the other day about writing a post on how few summers I have left with my oldest. (Sharp intake of breath)

AND I totally ditto Meredith's comment.

whimzie said...

I'm the one not moving this summer and it's weirder than I thought it would be. First time in four summers that it's not me. And in some ways, I think I'd like being the one who leaves better than being the one who gets left.

Love you.

Jennifer M. said...

Best of luck in your church hunting! I've been doing that too this year, and it's rather difficult to find just the right one! I think it's kind of like dating: you need one that fits your beliefs, as well as your personality! Don't give up - you'll find just the right one. :)