…in your book was written every one of them, the days that were formed for me,
when as yet there was none of them.
Psalm 139:16
There are many great things about being a Pastor. One of them is the different programs and gatherings I am able to attend to hone the craft of preaching and leading.
I recently participated in a group called “Spiritual Companions.” It is held at the Spiritual Life Center, which is now located on the campus of Hartford Seminary. I jump at any opportunity which brings me to the HS campus.
One of the exercises we did was different from any I have ever done; it was deeply moving. This exercise involved writing a poem that represents not where I came from but what I came from. I included a link as an example of this exercise, (the link may or may not work in the e- format, but it can be typed in manually). It may be something you would like try yourself.
I am including mine. I hope you will create your own. You can share it if you want, or you can just remember the textures, sounds and smells of your childhood that shaped who you are today. It is not meant to be a historical or biographical exercise. It is an opportunity to remember people, places and things. Here is mine:
I come from popcorn balls and laying under the kitchen table.
I come from Vietnam.
I come from drive-in movies, Planet of the Apes and Godzilla.
I come from gardens, dirt, vegetables, government cheese.
I come from sand and ocean, mountains and air.
I come from guitars, Puff the Magic Dragon and Sunshine on My Shoulders.
I come from plays, and 45 records.
I come from Kick the Can, Depression meals, rocky road squares and fudge.
I come from church, lots of churches.
I come from the Boston Pops, camping and fried bread.
I come from hard workers, laughter, lots of kids.
I come from wild grapes, sea roses and Nana’s kitchen table.
I come from strong women, unwed Mothers.
I come from gadabouts and gaggles of Guardian Angels.
This may be an exercise you enjoy as a spiritual exercise for the season of Lent. An exercise to contemplate not where you come from but what you come from!
Pastor Val
Arcane Technology Solutions, LLC
One Response
What an interesting exercise. If I were to do it, I come from sandy beaches and rolling waves. I come from painted picnic tables and tire swings. I come from bringing the garden dirt to the kitchen. I come from clam bakes. I come from fishing and boating. I come from a loving family which challenges, loves and supports. I come from chaos and noise. I come from biking and sports. I come from exploring, camping, hiking. I come from the phoenix rising from the ashes. I come from church and traditions. I come from Love. I come from I AM!