Sabbatical begins

Become inclined to watch the way of rain

When it falls slow and free.

Imitate the habit of twilight,

Taking time to open the well of color

That fostered the brightness of day.

Draw alongside the silence of stone

Until its calmness can claim you.

Be excessively gentle with yourself.

Stay clear of those vexed in spirit.

Learn to linger around someone of ease

Who feels they have all the time in the world.

Gradually, you will return to yourself,

Having learned a new respect for your heart

And the joy that dwells far within slow time.

If I had to pick a prayer for sabbatical for both me and for you St. Peter’s, this would be it. I hope this time of renewal is exactly that--a time to refresh, to take a deep breath. This has arguably been one of the most bizarre and challenging seasons. We’ve each felt it in different ways.

So, here’s some final unsolicited advice before I go silent for three months:

1. Don’t suffer in silence. Yes, the world is still different, restrictions are still in place, normal has not returned. But it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Reach out. Go outside. Pick up the phone. We’re not alone.

2. Pivot. Look at something or someone in a new way. It’s likely you’ve been doing this as we’ve all had to adjust. So now, take some time to investigate this new perspective. What do you see now that you didn’t see before?

3. Pay attention. Is there anything more simple, more profound, or more challenging? The world is waking up...what is she saying to you?