You and Me
Makes Three
We came to last weekend’s women’s retreat at Chehalis like school girls. Some came with their best friend. Some came feeling shy. Some came because someone else convinced them. We all came because we are connected to Willoughby CRC in some way. Retreat organizers welcomed us warmly, planning well and caring for our needs throughout the weekend. They made sure there was toothpaste and Tylenol, games and gifts. They were mindful of everything and everyone .
“Come away by yourselves and get some rest.” (Mark 6:31) These were opening words as Julia Prins Vanderveen, co-pastor at Vancouver CRC , led us through four sessions of reflection. Drawing on her own love for the words of Scripture Julia led us to consider the great commandment. ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength and love your neighbour as yourself. “Write it out in your own handwriting on the first page” she invited “and let’s just say it together....what you know by heart your heart knows.” Julia helped us reflect on how we each entered the weekend: robust and full of energy, feeling a good tired or just bone weary.
Throughout the weekend we sang: songs for weary souls, for doubting minds, heavy hearts, for joy-filled lives. If you held your own breath and listened you were caught up in the beauty of a chorus of women’s voices.
Saturday morning Marian Vanderwal led us through the Colour s for Life activities: blue , gold, green and orange. We played games, went for walks dressed up for dinner, watched a movie, enjoyed an impromptu concert. The weekend had poignant moments, fun moments and lots of laughter. Julia said, “In all the retreats I’ve led none of them have prompted me to laugh along with a group more than you have. What a gift your laughter is!”
Sunday morning captured the essence of it all. Julia led a quiet communion service at 7:17 am. We came in our pj’s. “Just as I am” we sang. Bread and wine offered before breakfast and the peace passed in word and later in prayer for each other. A good ending.
Over the next weeks take time to enjoy the unexpected little gifts that were part of the retreat. Search out that now familiar face. Eat the chocolate. Take a bath with soft soaps. Use the bookmark. And when the first butterflies appear be reminded of God’s goodness.