Holy.
We cross the threshold of the Notre-Dame Basilica.
A 2 hour trip taking us 4 hours because of a car repair.
Yet fun.
Relaxing.
Holy.
I am awed by the intricacies of the architecture.
Who was the designer?
How long did the artists work?
What were they thinking as they created this work of Art?
I sit in that place.
I take in all I can.
The holy meets my aching, tired, soul.
I am in awe.
Such gifts of talent given.
Candles lit in memories of loved ones.
I want to weep.
I want to light a candle for my boy.
I want to remember.
The kids say I need to come see another section.
For this I have no pictures.
It wouldn’t be right.
A holy of holies.
An inner room.
Hebrews 9:3
Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place,
Just as glorious as the main space.
Yet smaller.
Tears gather.
I take a seat.
The reverence and holiness.
To be in the presence someday of the Great I Am overwhelms me.
I lay down the burdens I’ve been carrying.
I am from a quaint, humble church background.
To be in the presence of such beauty is inspiring; sacred, humbling.
I remain still for some moments wanting to stay in the presence of such reverence.
I often wonder if we have lost that sense of awestruck holiness in the modern church?
I am making no judgement, just asking a question.
Reverence and stillness are often lacking.
My soul was hungry for both.
Our travels through the beautiful city of Montreal continued.
Adorned with Christmas lights and decorations I felt the weariness begin to dissipate.
Snow began to fall creating the most quintessential experience.
We found a unique crepe shop.
A steaming latte.
Eventually we headed back to the car.
Our exchange student wanted to ride the Ferris Wheel.
As a farm family we typically do not indulge in these extras.
But today, we did.
We said yes.
I stayed on the ground.
With snow falling, trees ablaze with white lights and Christmas Music playing on the speakers, I felt so content.
We caught the lights at purple, just before they switched over to red and green!
You see, I didn’t want to go.
I wanted to stay home and prepare for Thanksgiving.
I wanted to remain in the safety of my own home.
That still small voice said, “Go.”
I would have missed so much had I stayed.
It is so hard to break free of the status quo.
This has truly been a year of overcoming for me.
I am so grateful I said yes.
I am Thankful for:
times when I say yes
adventures off the farm
never a dull moment
the beauty of Notre Dame
quiet, holy moments
all thing Christmas
kids who laugh and enjoy each other
hot lattes in Canada
hot lattes anywhere
A farm boy who helped with chores so may farmer didn’t have to
A house full when we return
my warm, toasty bed
sleep (I love to go to bed)
this process of naming my gratitude
