June 23, 2015

There is a beautiful carousel in the courtyard of the Hotel Baer at the Zermatt resort.  Magical animals are frozen in mid leap waiting for the next rider.  

As I paused by the carousel enshrouded in the cool morning shade, I couldn’t help but think about how life sometimes feels like a carousel.  Life can catch you riding up and down in slow circles; round and round in health concerns, family issues, anger or sadness.  “God, when will this ever end?” we cry to the heavens.. “When does this stop? When can I get off?”

For a brief few days, I got to experience time off the carousel.  Here in Utah, I got the chance to stop that slow circle of life and take a breath. A slow breath bringing God into my center.

Taking a step from the carousel of fear, to be enveloped by so many beating hearts and healing arms.  Leaving behind the frenzied pace of a busy life for a few hours of stillness, of peace.

Don’t get me wrong, the Triennial gathering was busy, the schedule was packed with meetings, sessions and meals; but the days were colored with renewal.  Just as Jesus took time away from the crowds who clamored after him, we Daughters took a brief time away to be with each other and our Lord.

As I get older, I am learning that it is absolutely essential to take time to rest and breathe.  Here at Triennial I also learned that it is absolutely essential to take time to be in community with other believers.  Community looks different to each person, and it renews each person differently as well. While I like to be with others, I also crave time alone in order to sort my thoughts and recharge in silence.

As this Triennial experience winds down for me, I will take a piece of it with me in my heart.  I will remember how many times I had the chance to meet “God with the skin on” (Thanks to Anne Lamott for this wonderful description of the God in all of us.)

I will be settled by the belief that I will be held up in prayer and that all will be well.

Soon I will climb back up on my carousel animal, and as the circles begin their languid circles, I will continue to praise God for the opportunity to slow, stop and bask in His love through His Daughters.

It has been a true blessing to write for you this last week.  I have come away changed.  For this, I thank God.

Take risks for Jesus, dear Daughters .. take risks and be joyful!   Lori

* Administrative note: Please know that Lori submitted her posts in a timely manner.  Unrelated circumstances delayed the posting of her submissions to the website.  We endeavor to improve this for the future.  Thank you for your understanding.