As much as I would like to go away for a retreat on my three day weekend, I am appreciating instead the beauty in my own backyard on Turkey Creek. With a little reframing of my attitude that loves going off for a retreat or workshop to feel closer to God, I know that He is just as present here as He is in Asheville, NC., or at Springbank in Kingstree, SC., two of my favorite places. It’s just not the right time financially to make such a journey and it is up to me to know I need the time for solitude. The important thing is to take the time, whether it is here or there, because God is certainly everywhere! Just as “a rose by any other name would smell as sweet” so shall I treasure my Turkey Creek Retreat.
Anyway, I couldn’t take my buddy and best dog, Roofus, with me if I were going somewhere on a retreat. He has become a faithful companion…even though this morning I had to forgive him for chewing up the foam meat wrapper from the pork chops we had for dinner last night. The other dog, Abbie, may have played a part in the mischief but he looked the most guilty so I think he did it. The temptation was just too great; last night I saw the foam tray near the trash can but not IN it and I was too sleepy to bother with it. They’re still my friends and it was easier to forgive after I’d had my morning cup of coffee and was more awake to clean up the mess. It makes me wonder about the messes in me that God continually cleans up with His mercy, love, and grace. How patient and forgiving a Father He is, always loving me in spite of my sins, weaknesses, and mistakes.
So, onward I shall go, taking this question with me to my Turkey Creek Retreat: “How many times do we miss God’s blessings because they are not packaged as we expected?” (Author Unknown) and this verse: “Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” Psalm 107:8-9 from A Daybook of Grace. “Lord, may our eyes be opened to see the gifts You have given us!” (pg.330…11-11-11!)
Snippets and Snatches 