I have too much stuff! I have closets threatening to burst open. Every inch under every bed is full and every shelf is occupied. I just took 5 full boxes to the Good Will, but It will take many such trips to see a real difference.

It’s not all my fault. My mother brought a lot of stuff when she lived with us, and she brought stuff from her mother and two sisters. I sorted and threw out, but there is more yet to do, and plenty of my own family’s detritus as well!

There is a fair amount of spiritual stuff that needs sorting out in my inner self: losses and grief, disappointments and failures, abandoned hopes and plans, lingering wishes and dreams. Actually, I am quite a mess.

Meditation helps, and quiet space. Wise counsel from good friends and mentors also facilitates internal maintenance. I suspect most of us struggle with internal untidiness and would be appalled if others could see within us!

Remembering that we are all a bit of a mess might encourage us. Our fellowship is where we can be together in our internal chaos. We are a tribe of spiritually untidy but ever-seeking, compassionate pilgrims.

Has anyone seen the broom?

In wisdom & grace,

Rev. Ruth