This morning, just as I was just finishing up my morning meditation and prayer, I opened my eyes to see a turkey head slowly floating through the long grass outside the glass basement door. I was sitting on the floor, and the bird was walking up the hill, so for a minute or two, we were eye to eye. I have no idea if she could see me through the glass, but she filled my field of vision! And the strangest thing was, she was only a head and a bit of wrinkly neck (it was time to mow again). She was taking her time, not rushing, and so was I. She was no doubt scoping out some nourishment, and frankly, so was I! She was wrinkly and bright-eyed, and I was—well … Let’s just leave it right there.

But this turkey (I’m guessing a hen) reminds me as she wanders alone, taking her time, moving slowly through summer heat, and staying alive ’til she feels the urge to join a flock. So I resolve to drive more slowly on our country roads, and also to wander more through my own summer days. So often I define myself by what I accomplish and what I need to do next, but that’s just one facet of our life—alone or in a flock. So many of us are eagerly striving to strengthen the ties that bind—through the Farmers’ Market, and the Canterbury Fair, through 4-H and the Canterbury Benevolent Society, through shared worship and service at CUCC and among friends and neighbors. Yet, we also need to slow down and be still. To wander and roost! In today’s accelerated culture, we can use an occasional reminder to be still and know that God is God! So let’s take a little more time this summer, in our gardens, on our walks, and even in meditation and prayer, to heal and ready ourselves for the fall and the friends we will make as we shape our shared community.

~ In Peace, Pastor Becky