I used some vacation time this week and went away for a few days. This fall has been almost as busy as previous years and there have been some family health concerns and the sudden loss of one of my most favourite people in the world. So, when I recognized that I needed a break I cleared the days, packed the car, and headed out of town.

 

I have friends and colleagues who regularly go on retreat, taking the opportunity to get away and spend time in meditation and reflection. Often these days are also passed in silence – something that I have to say has never really appealed to me. But, from the time I pulled into the cottage laneway on Monday afternoon until I drove back out on Thursday I not only did not speak, I didn’t see another person or even hear evidence of anyone else. Not a boat, not a lawn mower, my phone didn’t ring. It was an unintended silent retreat.

 

The lake was beautiful, the colours of the leaves were breath-taking, the air was cool and bracing. Each morning, I woke to a light fog on the opposite shore blurring the edges. One day, in the time it took to light the fire, boil the kettle, and make my pot of tea, the fog moved across the water and enveloped everything. It was both eerie and lovely at the same time. I felt completely alone and yet completely surrounded by love.

 

It was also productive time. The outdoor furniture and boats were stowed away for the season. I split and stacked firewood and winterized the water system. I read, walked, and spent some time talking to God. It was exactly what I needed.

 

We are told that it is healthy to listen to our bodies and understand when we need a break. We have Jesus’ example for this, as scripture says that he often took time apart from the crowds, and even his closest friends, to pray and restore himself. In this season of Thanksgiving, I am very grateful for these days of silence and renewal. And I am also grateful to be back with you – even at a distance.

 

Blessings, Kathi