All Filled Up

 2/11/2022

Matthew 18:20 "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them."

Today I went to my dear friend Ruth's house for the first time in two years. Yes, I finally broke out of my personally restrictive Covid lockdown and ventured back out into the world. Another dear friend, Mimi, was also there. To say that I missed spending time with these wise, faithful, loving, funny, and wonderful women would be a major understatement. The truth is, my life was just not the same without them. I was so blessed when we were able to pick up right where we left off, and they made my soft reentry back into the world so easy and wrapped in caring kindness. We ate an extraordinarily yummy breakfast, prepared by Ruth, and talked for over 6 hours! The time just flew by as we shared all the things that have been going on in our world, our church, and our lives. By the end of our time together, I was encouraged, blessed, and my spirit was full to overflowing. The most amazing thing is that these two dear friends were patiently and lovingly waiting for me to be ready to reenter their lives. I felt no judgement or hard feelings, just love. This kind of friendship has been rare and elusive in my life, so I truly understand how precious it is. 

As we all reflect about the past two years, I am sure we all have all approached life a little differently. I have known people who have pretty much lived their life like they had before Covid, while adopting some CDC guidance to more safely maneuver the world. I know people who have been extremely cautious with who they allowed into their bubble and how they did things outside the home. I know people, like myself, who were back to work and running errands following strict protocols, but only spending time with those in the household. I also know people who have locked down tight, not going out unless absolutely necessary. We have all had our way of dealing with this difficult and unusual stretch of time, and that, in the long run, should be okay. 

I know what I am mostly hearing in conversation now, however, is that we all need to figure out how to get back to some kind of pre-Covid normal. We need to do this for our emotional and spiritual health and well-being. We were designed by God to be with others, and most of us are now collectively weary from being apart for so long. I want to get back to worshiping in church with other believers again, because watching the service online is just nowhere near the same. I want fellowship, no, I NEED fellowship with friends and family. It has been far too long, and I am ready take those calculated risks. I will continue to be cautious, but I will not continue to be away from those I care about. It is finally time. We are truly stronger together.