For almost a decade, I worked with a group of folks on a government project. After the contract ended, I lost track of them, except for rare sightings in a local grocery store, or word-of-mouth about this one or that, or emails from two or three I kept in touch with off and on.
The past few weeks, I forced myself to make the time to join them in an indoor-picnic-potluck at one of their homes, only about two miles from me. We expected about 10 former co-workers to join in. I truly looked forward to visiting with these folks for the first time in about 7 years.
It meant finding time (and funds) for a decent haircut early this past week.
It meant shifting tasks, doing daily routine tasks early in the day to ensure I would be free for the gathering which began at 11 a.m.
It meant making my offering (macaroni salad) early this morning when I first awoke at 5 a.m.
It also meant that I could only stay for 2 hours, maybe 2-1/2 at most.
I had a wonderful time. It was as though time had stood still. We chatted as though we were still working together. We caught up on each other's lives. We enjoyed good down-home food. I am truly happy that I made myself take the time.
Sad to say, the joyful edge dimmed a bit when I left. I had to go directly to pick up my middle-aged nephew from work. It was over 110 today; the car was boiling hot (windows are not tinted; sun-shades in front windows did little). The street where I usually wait for him was blocked because of an electrical transformer explosion nearby (6:30 a.m.), so I had to circle around until I finally found a place to park. He was hot and tired when he got in the car. The trip home was like bumper-cars with the traffic.
However, once I reached home, and he was fed after his 12 hour shift, I had a chance once again to remember the gathering. Nothing can keep me from being grateful to the Lord for paving the way for me to enjoy that get-together.
Dear Lord, you are generous and compassionate indeed; you know what I need to soothe my soul, and when I need it. Thank you, with all my heart.
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