The shattering revelation of that moment was that true peace, the high and bidding peace that passeth all understanding, is to be had not in retreat from the battle, but only in the thick of the battle. To journey for the sake of saving our own lives is little by little to cease to live in any sense that really matters, even to ourselves, because it is only by journeying for the world's sake—even when the world bores and sickens and scares you half to death—that little by little we start to come alive. It was not a conclusion that I came to in time. It was a conclusion from beyond time that came to me. God knows I have never been any good at following the road it pointed me to, but at least, by grace, I glimpsed the road and saw that it is the only one worth traveling.Fredrick Buechner. THE SACRED JOURNEY
This week has not been cheery. Some of my many failings have been noted. One of my friends died Tuesday, my favorite aunt a few weeks ago. A neighbor whom I have tried to help has pretty well scorned me in efforts. The sun is waning, not helping the SAD (disorder).
This seems the appropriate time to mention that the husband noted last week the Japanese have five words for gratitude, and they all mean resentment to a lesser or greater degree. So "thank you" might be harder for some to say than for others. (More Heinlein here.)
But, I digress. Libby Sweetpea and I are visiting this morning for Hospice: a new patient with dementia who, in a past life, worked as a gemologist. I'll be wearing big rings my dad made from onyx years ago. Maybe she will notice. Maybe she will remember something that made her happy in her work.
And the knitting continues, the reading continues, the walks have resumed in the beautiful fall weather. Trying to keep perspective and counting the blessings. Trying to journey the road Buechner references in The Sacred Journey.
Finished socks, incorrectly knitted, but good enough for a gal like me:
Linking with Finished Objects Friday
Oh, Nancy. I'm sorry that you've had some bumps this week. I love the passage of text that you share today. Grace is very good.
ReplyDeleteI think your socks look adorable! Way to go!
How kind of you to wear gems to visit a patient. Bless you.
Sorry it's been rough for you my friend. Focus on those who appreciate you and the things you love. Your socks are happy fun, like Christmas Marion and brightly blinking lights.
ReplyDeleteHi Nancy. I am so sorry for the loss of your aunt and friend. And, your pick-me-up attempts did not fare well! But, I see you've continued to move on to other tasks that, I promise, will be rewarding. I do hope the gemologist does notice your dad's gorgeous rings. Love the socks, and, your much traveled bridge has seen untroubled waters too!
ReplyDeleteHappy weekend-hugs coming your way! ♥
Sorry your week was not very good...I had a decent week, that ended with an excellent visit with some old friends....there is always next week..heck there is today and tomorrow....
ReplyDeleteI hope things will get better-I think I've had one of those weeks myself. But there still is lots for me to be thankful for!
ReplyDeleteLove ya!
Well Nancy, though your week was difficult you've come out shining, which doesn't surprise me at all. I love the socks! Your idea about wearing the rings for the gemologist is a lovely one. I'm sorry your friend wasn't grateful but your effort to help was sincere so I believe that's what matters.
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