an unexpected invitation

Last month I had to decide whether I was going to stay living in my community or move to another. I've lived here over a year but don't feel like I belong. (One of the issues with living with many people is that deep-hearted friendships are more challenging to cultivate!) If I don't belong with the people I am choosing to be among, how can I continue? I thought. The alternative was appealing but not ideal. Staying wasn't very appealing, but was easier than moving.

I wandered out to the paddock while thinking and praying about what to do. Our very friendly sheep were all resting on the grass and I sat down with one of them. As I sat with Smudge and she allowed me to pet her, I sensed that the land itself was inviting me to stay.

I had never had that experience before, but is something I'm growing in experiencing. I can't quite explain it yet, but the land roots me and deepens me in my soul. The land is alive and is inviting me to relate with her. Philosopher Derek Rasmussen has said, "Indigenous people believe that they belong to the land..."

May I grow in my belonging with the land.