When I listen to children in the Godly Play room tell me about their week, I have a difficult time not wanting to stop the world and just continue to listen. There never seems to be enough time to just sit back and talk about where we have been this week.
During a conversation one Sunday not long ago, my aunt was talking about how she didn't think it was appropriate that there be any talking or winking or smiling between people during the service of the Eucharist, how it was a distraction from the sacrament. While I agree that the sanctuary is holy and should be respected and honored as a sacred place, I also know that this may be the only time during the week to see my wonderful friends and neighbors. Our frenetic pace, the distance between our homes, our other commitments all conspire against us and keep us apart every other day but Sunday. And how I love to be fed the body and blood of Christ and as I am coming back to my seat, see the look of recognition on the baby of a special friend who reaches out to shake my hand. So, when the kids in my classroom want to talk about birthday parties, family vacations, pets, the death of a grandparent, I remind myself that this is one of the most valuable lessons I can teach-how to listen to one another. I slow down. I try not to think about the thousands of things I have to do before the day ends. I am fully present for their musings, wondering and emotions. This is how they learn to trust on another and me: to speak honestly and know they are heard.
For myself, I have acknowledge that one morning a week is not enough time to spend with my dear friends at Trinity and I have had the priviledge of starting a community garden in my yard so that we can enjoy each other's company, let the kids run wild and till the earth. Love, compost and company: It keeps me connected. And I learn how to trust the earth, the sun, then rain and my friends to help me create an oasis in the middle of the city!
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