Sunday, April 10, 2011

Pottery Sermon

Today was United Methodist Women Sunday, meaning the UMW was in charge of all aspects of the traditional services at church. Instead of having one of our pastors or a UMW members do a sermon, they had a special guest who made a large vase before our eyes. As she potted, she talked about the parallels in our spiritual lives: the need for sharpness at some times and gentleness at others, the concept of centering and balance, and all the different types of vessels that are necessary and serve different but equally valuable purposes. It was a very, very cool thing, and it put me in a distinctly Seagrove mood.

Last night, we had a ladies' night fondue party, which was pretty much the best thing ever. And tonight we are having a regular ol' youth group for the first time in at least three weeks. This return to routine feels very good. I'm loving The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter on CD, Dad is home from the hospital and sounds great, and I booked my ticket to Austin to see the seminary there. After some roughness, things are looking up at last.

I spent over two hours yesterday at Panera reading, writing a long-postponed letter, and flirting with all the cute babies and toddlers that are there on Saturdays. Later, at the fondue party, we talked about the necessity of time alone. One couple takes turns leaving for a weekend once a month. Another woman said she always loves being alone but often dreads it before it happens. Having had such a great time at Panera, not exactly alone but not performing for anyone or trying to make an impression, I knew precisely the feeling and the importance of taking time for oneself. Praise God for the opportunities we have to do so.

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