Tag Archives: community

Summer

Sounds of Summer

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August is already here on the calendar 📆 and time is flying by so quickly it seems. Where has the lazy days of summer gone? Ahhhh… the sounds of summer are always fresh in my mind.

I can hear the constant sounds of nature outside in my backyard- birds chirping, crickets, lawnmowers going in the neighborhood, children playing in yards. I can hear the sound of the river flowing as I walk on the greenway. Fellow walkers wishing us well as we pass by them bidding us a good day.

The sounds of the barista busy working on the next order of coffee, the laughter of the “coffee crew” who gather every morning to start the day with friends and a hit of caffeine motivation…

Then off to the hardware store to hear the key machine working to make yet another key for a customer. The sound of the cash register opening and closing, heavy footsteps on the stairs, the freight elevator cranks up-belts in movement… the quiet sounds of the ceiling fan… tools busy at work, money clanking in the snack jar… then I hear “thank you for coming by today” 😊… yes, it makes my heart sing !!!

retreat

Retreat- “Come to the woods, for here is rest.” – John Muir

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Retreat: time spent away from one’s normal life for the purpose of reconnecting, finding quiet time, or even escaping the distractions of daily routines.

Retreat maybe often used in the context of a spiritual experience. As I grow older, I am seeking more “retreat ” experiences in my daily life. These can be just the small things that I am doing everyday like walking with a good friend, coffee with friends, or seeking the sun porch quietness at my parents house. I appreciate the opportunities to “reconnect” to nature, family, or friends for a few minutes each day.

Even when I am working at Wilkes County Hardware, I will often retreat to the rocking chair area when I need a moment to reflect on the project I am working on in order to gain inspiration or a bit of renewal of spiritual energy to continue moving forward.

Often the quiet times of “retreat” brings about reflections, insights and new direction for the future. After retreat, a new vision or clarity can emerge. This is not only great for refreshing your mind but great for the entrepreneur spirit as well.

I’m grateful for my retreat community/”woods”. These beautiful people and places keep me refreshed, inspired and ready to move towards the new day ahead. Ah, the rest I seek… and need!!!

Can you quickly identify the “retreat” places or people in your life? Is it local destinations in your hometown, a park, church , or even somewhere in your home?

I would bet upon reflection, you maybe also be very grateful for the opportunity to go to the “woods”/community and find rest.