Great Escape

"Runs Good, Breaks Don't Work"...I saw this written on the windshield of a car, on my way to Hawkins, Texas. I laughed to myself. Only in a small town could you sell a car with no brakes. My drive to Hawkins was absolutely glorious. I was celebrating my first night away from my motherly duties, and enjoying the large green fields. It felt like a breath of fresh air to drive down those country roads. The tall trees hovering over the road, the weathered barns, the rolling hills. There is something about the colors and sounds of nature that make my heart feel alive. I think we all encounter God's creation this way...it's somewhat myserious to me.

So many people asked me if I was sad to leave my baby for a night, and I had to admit that I felt no sadness. I was able to formulate complete thoughts, listen intently to another person talk, and say a heartfelt prayer from beginning to end. It was so good for me to get away...just to be myself again. And, I knew in my heart that it was going to be a sweet opportunity for Ted to spend quality time with his daughter.

I pulled up to my friend's house. It was so cute. Picket fence, big front yard with flowers, and two comfortable chairs on the porch. I knew my friend had probably spent hours in these chairs, devouring God's Word and asking for guidance. Her place seemed to have a restful presence. I was so excited to see my old college friend. Her friendship has been priceless to me. Whenever I spend time with her, I feel like I just had a really great quiet time. She has such a deep and contagious love for the Lord, and our talks always come back to how God is growing us. I knew it would be "soul food" (as she likes to call it) to spend that time with her, and that I would leave feeling inspired and challenged.

Well, of course it was a wonderful trip. The thing that challenged me the most about her life in Hawkins was just how simple it was. I really love what life offers when we escape the television, the constant greed for possessions, the competitiveness of our flesh. When we really just choose to live in contentment and honesty, there are great riches to be acquired. That's something that is difficult to do in the city, but I was reminded and inspired to keep pursuing it, even if it makes me look different. I think we ended on this conversation, and sweet Amy challenged me to remember that I was not alone. What a gift...to have someone remind you of the eternal purposes of life.