listening

It's been a season of listening... and I'm finding much to hear.  The boys & I just got back from a church staff retreat (yes, I said "staff," as in "semi-employed," as in that's probably where my volunteer status is headed...)  While there, the team enjoyed some intense coaching and reflection.  We also tackled important questions, like, "Why am I?" and "Who am I?"  It was good to consider these for myself, but even better to listen to the answers, passions, dreams, gifts, and talents of the amazing people who make up this group.

I'm also listening more and more to my children.  Conversations are getting more complex around here, with reasons and wonderings and interests traveling beyond breakfast choices.  I like this stage of motherhood!  My boys are interesting, and their ideas and comments make me laugh, and sometimes make me wonder, and often make me perk up my ears to listen intently.

The neighborhood is talking and changing, as our dear Mary next door adjusts to less independence, better care, and more caretakers in her home.  I'm thankful she can be home and healthy, and even more thankful that I'm able to listen more without being a caretaker.  This is far more sustainable for our friendship.

I'm happily listening to less punditry and campaigning, and bending my ear to the realities of the next season of leadership locally and nationally.  I'm trying not to listen to those who think we're doomed, nor those who think they've elected a savior.  Neither are very balanced views, in my opinion.

I've been knee-deep (and sometimes over my head) in listening to my favorite words, too, as the boys and I have decided to memorize some bible verses together.  We started with 1 Corinthians 13, and slowly walked through its definition of love.  I enjoy this discipline of joining them in an adventure of listening and understanding.

We're listening to new toe-tapping, booty-shaking music, too.  I've just ordered the new Johnny B CD - a favorite artist we know well from our old 'hood in Seattle.  The new album looks like a lot of fun.  

Finally, I'm listening to you, my friends & family, who want to hear more often from this little update spot.  I promise to try harder in the coming weeks.  It is a delicate balance to listen well & write often, as time is hard to spend in both places.  Nonetheless, I know it's important to stay in touch, so I hereby say, "I hear you!" and will start posting more!  In the meantime, thanks for listening patiently.

much love,

MamaToo