Take Respite

            Last week I told you about “my room.”  It’s actually a second den, or living room, if you will, but it’s not as large as our true family room.  It really is my room. Tina let me paint it the color I wanted, and I have largely decorated it myself.  The rug on the floor is a baseball diamond. Yeah, she’s pretty lenient.

            By the way, she has her own room, too. It’s her music room.  Her piano, cello, and ukulele are all there, along with a closet filled with music books.  Have I told you she is a retired music teacher?

            Well, back to my room.  I have a pennant from the 2021 World Series won by the Braves, along with a Coke bottle from the 1996 Olympics that were held in Atlanta.  I also have the small trophy that my mother received in 1954 when her team won the only state championship in the history of Dacula High girls’ basketball.  True story. And my dad, my sister, my nephew, my niece and I all played basketball for the Dacula Falcons. 

            But there’s one thing that is on my shelf that I hope people recognize is a joke.  I admit that I am an introvert, and I do go to bed somewhat early, but I really am not this bad.  The plaque says, “Welcome to our home. Please leave by 9 p.m.” Again, I’m joking. Sort of. 

            The truth is that home is where we go to rest, to relax, and to recharge.  We all need a home where we can do that. I am aware that there are homes where this does not happen.  I am so glad that I have a place where I can get away from life, if only for a short time.

            But can I simply remind you of this one truth? My true home is not in Shellman Bluff. According to Paul, I am a citizen of heaven.  I’ve not yet been to my true home. But one day I will be welcomed there. I’ve made my reservations.  I’m going home. I hope that you have done the same. I hope to see you at home one day.