I have travelled for work for most of my life. I wanted to do this growing up, however I had no idea what I was getting into. At some point, a hotel, even a fantastic one like the one I am in now, becomes a place to sleep. Meals can be great, but one misses the special ingredients that come with a home cooked food. The voids are always there. The chatter of loved ones, the familiarity that nurtures a sense of belonging, and the comfort of being in a space where you can raid the refrigerator without thinking is just the beginning.
Time and the absence of two young girl’s voices continues to trigger replays in my mind. Although I was sure I was doing it for the right reasons, the harsh reality is that I was not there for large chunks of their lives. When I read the Psalmists words, I think of their questions to me; “How long do we put up with this, God? Are you gone for good? Will you hold this grudge forever?” (Psalm 89.46) Then and now, the silence seems unanswered.
Whispering remind me of the truths hiding behind the voids in my life.
Those we love, including God, are as close to our hearts as we allow them to be. Physically present or not, awareness or in the absence of it, each is in the room that we provide within us. Far too often I put a shutter on my heart telling Divinity that she is not welcome right now. Later, I catch myself complaining of the void of my own creation. Open doors in one’s hearts are filled more often than not but the love, care, and connection between us no matter how far apart we might be.
Connecting, especially in being and doing things together, is food for the soul. It restores hope. It nurtures courage and resilience. It gives one the ability to face fear and uncertainty in strength and stability. Connecting in all the tangible and virtual ways possible is always a good idea.
