Day Thirteen - Jan 13, 2019

My aunt and I walked the dog this morning along the beautiful bridle path that runs along the river... The sky was majestically blue with green pastures in the distance. Tiny cottages lined the view. I feel as though I’ve stepped back in time … hundreds of years. 

On one side of the path, there is a very narrow footpath and along the center there is a very large area for horses. It was quite obvious that it is a much better idea to stay out of the mud and mire in the center and stick to the narrow path along the edge. 

Everyone knows everyone in the village and I’m introduced by my aunt to everyone - “This is my niece, Debs - from America...” I’m sure now that everyone in the surrounding villages also knows I’m here. It feels good to be called by name. To be called family. To be introduced to such a tightly knit community as though I have a situated place. 

I am grateful to see the care and love generously given out by caring and loving neighbors. It is most common to stop, without calling beforehand, to have a cup of tea. 

I prepared photos all afternoon of my sweet uncle to display in a day or two. He lived his life to the fullest! A rally driver, guitarist, climber, skier, hiker... I am grateful to have this little slice of time to honor him and spend time with my aunts. 

I know that sometimes this journey can get tedious and tiring. Sometimes we find ourselves bogged down, plodding straight down the center of the path stuck in the mud and mire of our troubles. Our feet feel stuck and sometimes barely see the narrow path just to our side. 

I think in these times, if we can be still and rest deeply within ourselves... we can find the footholds to get closer to the true path. The true, meaningful and enjoyable way. 

And sometimes we need neighbors and dear friends to cling tightly to us while we find our footing... so that someday we can offer ourselves to them in return.