After completing a two week substituting position in the art room, I thought that a Michigan hike would be a perfect way to enjoy a Saturday. After a morning coffee with my friend Gwyn, our family headed to Holland with Kenai, our furry friend. The hike included a walk through a beautiful forest and a stroll along one of my favorite bodies of water, Lake Michigan.
Walking along the shores of Lake Michigan with Mitch, Corey, and a canine happily sniffing various smells is definitely a type of sanctuary. Looking across the lake waters never gets old. As we walked on the sandy shores, my mind went back to the week’s events. Subbing in middle school art definitely tested my patience at times. Observing a seventh grader deliberately place himself in a trash can, reminding students that they are quiet during instructions, and encouraging students frustrated with art pieces were only some of the memorable moments. I also had the privilege of being a small part of the weekly chapel where students from kindergarten through eighth grade gathered in small groups to focus on their theme: Living God’s Story.
Part of my week also included visits to my father, still struggling to find purpose in life after my mom. That part of my week seemed the most difficult. I feel like I am at an impasse where I don’t know if changing anything will help. It needs to be him. He needs to find his sanctuary.
We ended the afternoon by visiting my father and taking him outside for a walk around Royal Park. He enjoyed seeing Kenai and actually smiled from time to time. I need to find more sanctuaries for him as the journey continues.
A Journey Worth Remembering 