Solitude, Renewal and You

A few weeks ago my husband walked in the door after work and handed me an envelope.  I cautiously opened it, and read the words “Gift Certificate For 3 Hours of Quiet Starting Now.”  To be honest, I had been dropping subtle clues like, “I seriously cannot take this anymore”, or “If I do not get a few minutes of quiet I think my head is going to explode.” I was relieved he got the clue and did something nice about it.

I graciously accepted. I went to the library, opened up my laptop, and began to write:

It’s ironic that the clicking of my keyboard keys is the loudest noise I have heard all day.  All the other noise of kids, dogs barking, cereal spilling, and plants tipping over are like white noise to me.

Silence and solitude used to be my companions whether I liked them or not, and I really did grow to love them.  When I finally did get used to them, they seemed to vanish as quickly as they came.

Silence and Solitude Renew

When I’m silent, solitude renews me; and I become aware of God’s presence so I can just “be” again. Until moments of quiet are enjoyed or allotted on a regular basis again, I–you–will need a replacement. We’ll need something to stand in solitude’s stead. For many of us, it’s just a captured moment here and there and for now, that’s all we can get.  When the moment comes, I guzzle those moments down, barely able to enjoy them because I know they will be gone fast.

In the process, I’m learning to let those not so quiet moments shape me. I’m learning to listen harder, stare longer, walk nearer, and live harder.

Trust me, it is as hard as it sounds especially on the days when the plants are tipping, kids are fighting, and dogs are barking. Yes, it’s harder on those days, but it’s worth it.  He is so worth it to me.

“My soul thirsts for God, the living God. Where can I go and meet with God?” Psalm 42:2