It Started Here

For thirty years I worked six days a week (except for the last couple of years when I sometimes had a five-day workweek). I reported to work before the sun came up in the morning. When I retired, one of my first priorities was to see the sun rise. I could not wait to experience that early morning delight when the day felt serene and full of possibility.

My son purchased some acreage next door to me about that time. It had trails throughout where the deer wandered and previous owners drove. He welcomed me to walk there. It may be one of my favorite fringe benefits of motherhood, sharing the fruits of his labor.

I longed to become a reader but sitting still did not suit me. Audible books became my walking companions on days I wanted some company. Other days, silence won and the sounds of nature filled those early morning walks. Music requires my full attention, so unless it was a day when I broke out in praise, usually I did not choose to listen to recordings.

When you come to a new season in your life, remember, you can orchestrate parts of your setting. Choose wisely. Your decisions in those moments will set the tone and direction for what comes next. In my case, what I listened to and the quiet talks with God created space for me to think, learn and worship. It all started on those dirt roads.