My youngest daughter invited me to a Woman’s Retreat in July. The retreat would be held in September, but I had time to think about it. At first, I didn’t think that I would be able to do it. My knees had been giving me problems. I knew the site for the retreat had many stairs to climb. I did not want to be a burden. But she reminded me how much I enjoyed the retreat, and we would have quality time together. I knew she was right.
When my daughter made the reservations, she mentioned my mobility restrictions. We were given a room that was close to the meetings, easily accessible by elevator. I was afraid my knees would be a problem. Thankfully that didn’t happen.
The retreat always had two breakout sessions. Since I’m no longer young, I was concerned I wouldn’t find anything of interest. By now I should know better. Paying attention to the subject matter, I found two sessions that were perfect.
The first Sesson was WILDERESSS. It highlighted the time spent in the wilderness by Abraham, Hagar, Elijah, Moses, Jesus and many more — some very familiar, others not as well known. “If we can bare our souls to a friend and not to GOD, we have a problem”. It highlighted time spent waiting, the loss and struggle, the unbelievable sorrow. We have permission to protest. It is important to invite others into our wilderness, we shouldn’t try to do everything by ourselves. Life often puts us in the wilderness in our own life. When my husband died, I was ANGRY. I was positive GOD would heal him. My husband DID NOT want to be a burden. GOD honored my husband’s request. It took a while before I honored my husband’s choice — GOD’S decision. There are still times when I’m back in the wilderness. I have always been stubborn. Some things don’t change — But I’m trying to be more accepting of God’s plan. When asked what prayer the presenter often relied on, she mentioned JOB. I knew exactly where she was referring too. That particular passage often popped up in my life.
REST was the second session. GOD rested after HE made the world. HE enjoyed what HE did and rested. When we rest, we acknowledge that we trust GOD to handle our life. It is important for us to plan for resting. Since I have aged, I find I don’t push myself as much. If I rest, I have more energy.
Through the years I have met many women at the retreat. I’ve learned that often I met someone who helps me, or I can help. This weekend was no exception. On Sunday, I saw some of my older friends. I’m ready for the next weekend — If I maintain my health.
Wandering With Spirit 
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