Recently I started reading a book called Rhythms of Renewal by Rebekah Lyons. It speaks of how we go through different phases in our life. Some of these rhythms exist to restore and renew our spirits, while others help us connect and create to the world around us. I have truly enjoyed how she has explained the ways we can connect deeper to these times instead of fighting our way through them. In the past, God would often lead me to a time of rest and I would go kicking and screaming, like a child who was told no to the box of cookies in the grocery store. Rebekah expresses ways to lean into the rhythms and the benefits of doing so.
Prior to reading the book, I never realized how many things I am already doing to rest and restore. I am approaching a year of isolation in a small town where I only know my husband and the man who greets me as I walk into the gym. Yet, I am learning to appreciate this time more and more. It has allowed me to focus on my health, marriage and relationship to my heavenly Father. As I feel a change in my current rhythm lingering around the corner, I am surprisingly sad and not sure I want to let go of the comfort I've become accustomed to. Although I know just like spring cannot come without winter, I cannot grow into connection without letting go of my time of restoration.
In close to two short months, Braden and I will be returning to Denver, an hour south of where we currently reside. I can feel God preparing me for this shift in my rhythm. Allowing me to anticipate the connection and creativity that awaits. He has blessed me with a year filled with personal input so that I may fill myself to a point of overflow. Now this overflow can hopefully spread into the lives of others. While I will miss aspects of these quiet days in a town that never seems to fully wake up, I look forward to what God has in store for me. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11
Our fixer upper - before and afters to come