Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Day Seven

Sigh....  Overwhelming; that's what it feels like to have posted nothing since June 8th.  Most days I can barely remember what I did yesterday.  But then, this blog is about thoughts and feelings on a journey, not the details of what, when and where.  So, where should I begin today?

Ireland, a 'thin place', where the division between earth and heaven is invisible and God will speak to a fragile and open heart in ways that are inexplicable.  Yes, I find those thin places whenever I have extended times in nature, soaking up the magnificent creation God has provided for us to enjoy. Eleven days is too short of a time to be in such surroundings.  But one can only absorb so much before retreating inside for processing.  (Yes, that is just my way of rationalizing the disappointment of having to leave so soon.  I'd LOVE to be able to spend significantly longer periods of time in thin places.)

Ireland is a most lovely landscape and we had exceptional weather; little rain, cool air, sunshine with a few clouds and a wee bit of mist.  I love sheep, cows, puffins, foxglove, thistle, rolling hills, water, big water, history, and the search for where God is at work.  This trip was all of that, and more.

But all I think I want to say about the trip today is that friendship is a very precious thing.  Friendship that has love for God in the middle of everything is priceless. Sometimes we call that kind of friendship, "sacred companions".  I hope you have at least one that you treasure and cherish.  I believe God intends for it to be so; to help in the transformation of our hearts and souls to be more like Jesus. 

Have a blessed day!