The Stillness Of The Night
Within you there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself. ~Hermann Hesse
There is something reverent about the silence and calmness of the night. I often wake up very early in the morning and the quietness and peace is so profound that I simply sit to take it all in. I notice that even the birds are still sleeping.
As I walk from room to room to check on my children, I stand over their beds and just listen to their calm, rhythmic breathing. It is in their deep sleep that they find the energy yet again, to be fully engaged in all that life offers them. To once again be filled with carefree laughter and joy. To skip and dance as only the innocence of childhood can bring. And to embrace with such purity of love, that one stands but in awe as to how deep into the soul it reaches. How sad it is that many children are deprived of such restful and peaceful nights. A loving thought to all such children, - “Might you be covered with the warmth of God’s loving hand and feel His tender embrace, so that you too may rest peacefully within.”
It is in the stillness of the night, that I find my wholeness again. Stilled from all the chatter, stilled from so much noise, I hear only the silence that the wee hours of the morning can bring. I find rest as I take the time to listen to the wisdom that lies within. I take note that so much of the time, pain could be avoided when those moments of clarity and wisdom are heeded to. You see, I think it is in them that we walk more cautiously and with more care as we participate in life. Only when we carelessly toss the voices of wisdom aside, do we bring so much pain on ourselves. All of us have the ability to reach deep within and allow God to sharpen our vision for the paths that we have chosen.
As I contemplate the silence itself, I am mindful of those who have entered a season of darkness and silence. It will feel to them as if God Himself has removed all presence of divine - such spiritual silence is painful to endure. It can bring depression and grief to such a deep level that it almost feels as though the throat itself has tried up, and there is nothing more to say.
Then, there is death. When a heart is at peace, death is welcomed as the radiance of God’s light will dissolve all pain and fear that has been experienced in this life.
Just before waking my family for the day, I open the door to look out into the garden and I can hear the first twitching of the birds. I take in a deep breath of gratitude for the wonderful stillness of the night.
This brought tears to my eyes. Very touching and thought provoking.
Comment by Rose — February 12, 2007 @ 4:19 am
I read you blog and although you and I don’t have many conversations I wanted to let you know that this morning I read what you had to say and it really touched me. We a s people get so caught up in our daily lives and problems I don’t think we ever sit back a wonder how beautiful silence really is. It gives you time to think and speak with our Lord. I know that I am one to run around in circles in my life and not sit and enjoy but you have made me realize that I should slow down and enjoy life and the wonders that God has put before me. Thank you very much for your words and the peace that is within them.
Comment by Shelia — February 12, 2007 @ 3:02 pm
Thank you Rose. I love having you visit. You are always so encouraging!
Sheila, I am so happy you came to visit me here on my blog today. Thank you for your kind words!
Comment by Viola — February 12, 2007 @ 3:53 pm
Good story. I had many memories come to mind as I read. I have experienced these moments as well and must say, you nailed it. From the feelings and thoughts to the hopes and dreams. Thank you for sharing this. Write On!! Fly
Comment by Fly — March 3, 2007 @ 7:23 pm
This is a good story showing how you give gratitiude to God for all you have I liked reading this too.
Steve
Comment by Steve — March 3, 2007 @ 7:24 pm
If only, sometimes, we would take a little ‘quiet time’ during a busy day too, we will find God in every ray of sun. The truth is most of us have to get up in the middle of the night, and seek - and find HIM in the breath of our children - and how beautifully you captured the treasure. May God’s grace be with you all your life.
Comment by Zuanne — March 3, 2007 @ 7:27 pm