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Topic: Hide and Seek (08/07/08)
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TITLE: Find Your Restful Place | Previous Challenge Entry
By Sherry A. Jackman
08/13/08 -
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A plan developed to use my new station wagon as a mini-camper and take it to some place safe but away from all the noise. Peace and quiet allows us time for reflection, time for seeking closer communion with our heavenly father and our inner spirit. It is not wrong to enjoy the cultural things the city has to offer. A trip to zoo or art museum, an occasional symphony or even quality rock concert, or the local library, are all wonderful ways to spend time.
However, there is no substitute for the rejuvenation that comes from being somewhere quiet and peaceful. From where I live the back of beyond, or the end of the road, is not all that far away, just a drive of a little over two hours. I was also blessed to have a friend with a home and free lodging at my back of beyond retreat. It truly was the end of the road and while I saw a few small aircraft there, it was nothing compared to the noise of the nearby military base back home.
In addition to spending time away from noise, my close friend of 35 years and I had time to renew our friendship in person. We have kept in touch by phone or e-mail, but there is nothing quite like face to face fellowship to strengthen bonds. She has a beautiful view of Hood Canal and the Olympic Mountains and reflecting on God’s creation can also bring healing.
I moved from a 1,055 square foot home with detached garage and carport into a 755 square foot apartment recently, as well as losing the house to foreclosure and my husband to a long-term illness. This new neighborhood is densely populated and doesn’t allow for much peace and quiet. Therefore, relaxing quiet getaways are a must. Every writer needs time to rejuvenate their inner being, to allow the peace to come in and chase away the stress. The creative muse cannot come out and work if there is too much chaos going on around you. It is important to know that, even though we may have to live in an affordable place that is not as quiet as we would like, we can always find a quiet getaway somewhere.
That is what I plan to do as often as I can. Put camping gear, food, and other safety items in car and go away some place safe and quiet and get away from it all. Take Bible and notebook and maybe a small music player, if desired and take a healthy attitude about life because my health is worth it. Taking care of me, hiding from the cares of the world and seeking God and healing, these are actions that matter more than any amount of overtime wages that might prevent a calm getaway. Scripture says to love thy neighbor as you love yourself, so I plan to start first with loving me in order to be healthy enough to love my neighbor.
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