Reunions

Sorry Peeps.  I've been busy getting ready for visitors and uninspired about writing.  We picked up my Ohio daughter from the airport this morning; her husband will join later in the week after putting in a few workdays. We just watched the first Razorback game of the season on TV. I spent most of it scrolling through my phone looking at pictures of my 50th high school reunion, happening this weekend.   

I went to the 40th. To be honest, I did not enjoy high school and harbored much trauma from my days growing up in south Arkansas. I felt the movement of the Holy Spirit to go to that reunion and touch base with my roots as a competent adult with agency over my feelings and behaviors. I did so much mental preparation that I experienced the weekend as OK and somewhat pleasant.  When I mentioned to my priest that I was attending the 40th, having never had any inclination to be present at a reunion, she said, "Well, it's Biblical. 40 years simply means 'long enough'". 

My spiritual work at the moment is about making peace with the past, forgiving myself and others, and letting go of what no longer serves to connect me with what is holy and life-affirming. Experiencing the current reunion from a distance in favor of precious time with my daughter feels right, like I am making progress on living in the moment, where the Holy Spirit dwells.

Precious Savior, bless and heal our memories.  We never can nor would want to lose them, but help us make peace with the past. Empower us to show mercy to our younger selves and the people who had control in our lives. Let the gift of years inform us. Draw our attention to the personal and spiritual growth you have nurtured in us over time. Direct our feet on the path of faith. In You we will know rest and an easy yoke.

Amen