Spiritual Renewel

2013/January by Marji Laine 5 Comments

I admit, I’m rather an introvert. Most people wouldn’t think so to meet me. I’m happy to speak to strangers and have no problem in social situations, except when I’m around them for too long. Then I need a break.

It’s a little different when I get to go to one of my favorite places. My in-laws’ house. Toss out those old, goofy stories, (Glad I didn’t see any in-law horrors BEFORE I married my man!) these folks are some of my favorite people. And my m-i-l is actually a step-mom so toss all of those ugly stories out, too. Boy, I’m killing the fairy tales, huh?

When we visit, I find I cocoon a lot. Being away from daily days and all the routines and stresses that go with them allows me to just chill. I take my camera to the back porch and veg in the swing, snapping pics of birds or bugs. Okay, not so much in December, but it’s still peaceful. While I had my computer and indulged in writing, I also read a little, watched some favorite movies, and even played some computer games! First time on this 6-month-old computer!

I find when I’m there, I’m more in a spirit of listening than normal. I’m quiet enough, literally and spiritually, to hear the Lord’s urging. To feel His presence. And I think that’s important! Vacationing isn’t relaxing to me. There’s always something that I want to see or show or experience. But that isn’t the case at Casa de Parents-in-law. There isn’t really any place to go. Never any hurry to get somewhere except for Sunday church. Little to tempt to the television, and though the kids always find a multitude of things to do, aside from an occasional chat or card game, I find true relaxation.

Brain as well as body.

Ahhh. I needed that!

And I found the one word that resonates with me the most as I start a new year. Journey. My writing career seems to be moving, but I’m at the beginning of my journey. My oldest contemplates foreign missions; another type of journey. And my precious redhead will begin her senior year next year, seeking out God’s path for her life. Yet another. Journeying takes preparation and as a mom of four, I know I’ll need to push through to be ready to move when called. This is going to be a FUN YEAR!