Defining Moments
There have been a few “defining moments” in my life. Moments that with their immediacy and completely distilled messsage speak loud and clear, shaping my life in a unique fashion. A couple of profound moments that altered my direction and outlook on life immediately come to mind: That moment on the Yellow Breeches in Grantham, PA gazing into a beautiful young woman’s blue eyes, right then I knew in my bones that I would marry L (and I did - and we took wedding pictures near that spot). A winter morning driving along route 28 between Midland and Catlett, VA when it became clear that doing the work of God was killing God’s work in me, and that I must walk away from full-time vocational ministry. A night in my bed when I realized my father’s voice would never hit my ears on earth again. Defining moments.
Some are joyous. Some are tragic. Each quietly causing a seismic shift in that inner part of you.
I was at Resurrection Center in Woodstock, IL back in August of 2005. It was on a summer afternoon when I made my way across the conference centers grounds. I was walking determined on reaching my goal. I had heard there was a hermitage on the property and I wanted to see it. I got a bit turned around and made some wrong turns, but my persistence won over my midguided steps and I found it; and the key to make entry.
After nebbing around the one room building I settled down in a wooden rocker and gazed out the large picture window. The space between this world and the next began to close in. In that little room in the middle of the woods in the middle of North America - I heard again the voice of my Maker. One word. Two syllables that shook my being. Five letters that embraced me with deep felt approval and acceptance. In that moment (or moments?) - few things could compete with my focus and alertness to an often forgotten term.
I haven’t and hope to never forget that short time in that little room.
I was reminded there that I am dear to my Maker. I found new purpose and new desire to continue on taking steps with and toward my Master. I found dignity and meaning in who I was. I “saw” this world and my place in it focused for a second.
A defining moment - defined by a two-syllable, five letter word, whispered by a still, small voice.
Abide.
At that instant - I most deeply wanted to abide. And it has made all the difference.
“Freedom is not whether we can do whatever we want, but whether we can do what we most deeply want.”
(I found that quote in that little room in the woods in Woodstock, IL - I don’t know who first said it.)
[…] Perigrinatio » Defining Moments […]
Haha am I really the only reply to your great article.
If only more people would hear this.
If only more than 13 people could hear this..
Super great post. Truely..
If I had a nickel for each time I came to www.perigrinatio.com.. Amazing writing!
Hah I am literally the first comment to this incredible post!?
[…] Perigrinatio » Defining Moments […]
What a lovely entry to your blog……..my brother, Jim Wiita, told me about your site, as he wanted me to read some of your insights. He did not mention this particular entry……but it’s very sweet and lovely and made my heart melt a bit. Jim mentioned that you used to post on the DAMB, so you might remember me as Woggy (or the Queen, whichever you like
I hope you will not mind that I copied this piece of prose, and will reread it from time to time - maybe share it - because it just had that kind of impact. I also like your articles about ‘divorce’ and doubt……Call me Doubting Thomasina!!! I am surely right up there in those ranks.
God bless you in your work, your endeavors, your writings. Surely they will impact the world, one person at at time
Polly (the queen) - I certainly remember you… and think of your brother fondly, as well.
Thank you for the encouragement. I don’t write as often as I would like… but over time a few things appear - and hopefully they will be meaningful to those who “stumble by”
In one Peace.
Doug