Friday, July 23, 2010

A Sense of Peace


I've enjoyed your comments about sacred places so much that I'm devoting one more day to the discussion. Many of you mentioned the ocean, and those who've been with me awhile know of my own reverence for the sea. Big Sur (pictured above) is my idea of the perfect spot, because it has the best of both worlds: mountains and ocean. Water in any form is elemental for me (especially the sound of it), so a lake, river, or creek in the mountains thrills me, too. Or just sit me by a babbling brook––I'll be happy! And serene.

I especially loved that a couple of you mentioned being in the midst of your family as a sacred place, because I feel that way as well. There could be no place more more central to my relationship with all that is sacred, God included, than the center of my family. And those who are members of my church, of course, will agree that there is no better environment for quiet reflection than the temple, whether inside or on the grounds.

Tomorrow marks the beginning of our annual family reunion in Newport Beach. Besides Christmas and Thanksgiving, this week spent with all of my children, my parents, and most or all of Dave's and my siblings (who visit us there) has to be my favorite event of the year, and I'm looking forward to it more than I can say. With lots of free time and plenty of good feeling to share, I intend to keep blogging...and I promise to include many photos of two beautiful things...my family and the ocean.

I'm also excited to say that we are finally having some professional photos taken there (my daughter-in-law, Heather, is looking forward to gracing the other side of a camera for once), and I hope to share those with you, too, when they are available. Erin is extremely talented, and I'm hoping she can get a shot or two of me that doesn't scare anyone!

I'll close with one of my poems from His Children; it definitely belongs with all this discussion of sacred places.


Solitude

©2003 Susan Noyes Anderson, His Children, Vantage-Point Press
(this picture is not taken from His Children)

The water is wide and shimmers clear.
Each tree’s reflection, straight and tall,
stands witness to the majesty
of God, who has created all.

In quiet places He draws near;
let any who would seek release
withdraw into the wilderness
and find in Him a sense of peace.

May that sense of peace be yours...every one of you.

=)

15 comments:

Unknown said...

I need to re-establish a sacred place pronto. I was trying so hard to have a month of "be still" moments and that hasn't worked out around all my packing.

Erin Thompson said...

Oh, I can't wait Sue, thanks! Have a wonderful weekend with your family!
P.S. Easy.... you are beautiful!

Darlene said...

Well said, Sue. We're looking forward to some beach time with all of you.

Momza said...

I loved this. Thanks so much!

karen said...

Have a wonderful time with your family - I'm looking forward to seeing all of the pictures! I would love to start a family tradition like that.

Amy said...

I haven't been doing much blogging lately, and imagine my surprise when I visit your blog for talk ideas (I am speaking Sunday) and am greeted with this! Inspiration flows through you, I am convinced. And the music is perfect. Thank you so much for being such an awesome example (and resource!)

VK said...

Have a great week, and enjoy your family.

Kasie said...

what gorgeous photos!

Myrna Foster said...

There is something peaceful and sacred about water. It's been about ten years since the last time I saw an ocean, and I miss it.

Michelle said...

Sue, you take lovely pictures. ;)

I could relate so much to what you said about the sound of water. That is so soothing to me. I felt even more 'justified' in that sensation when I read the phrase 'peace as a river' and 'righteousness as the waves of the sea.' God likes the water, too. ;)

LeAnn said...

Sue, you are inspiring! I just love your posts.
Hugs to you! LeAnn

Life@Cee said...

Sue, I hope you enjoy your family reunion. I look forward to seeing the pictures. Beautifully written poem. With all the distractions of life, it's hard to withdraw to that quiet place even though I know it's always worth doing.
Cee

Jenny said...

The ocean is so beautiful!

I am glad you spent a lovely week with your family!

Joy For Your Journey said...

I too love water. I love streams and rivers but especially the ocean. Sitting on the beach listening to the waves is so calming to my soul.

But another sacred place is my house. I hadn't thought about that much until several years ago I was at my sister's house and her husband talked about how sacred their family room was. Family nights had been held there, Father's blessings, blessing of the sick, baby blessings, etc., all took place in that room. That really made me think about my family room and wanting to be sure it was kept sacred. For that reason I moved the TV out. I have loved that decision.

I hope you are enjoying your family reunion. I think being with family and other loved ones is the best!!

Caroline said...

Beautiful poem, as always.
I hope you have a great vacation. Enjoy your sacred space near the ocean and have a wonderful time with your family. I think family photos are definitely something to be cherished so that's a good idea you guys are having some taken! I bet they will be great!

:)