"I find it shelter to speak to you."  Emily Dickinson

An acquaintance gave me one of the daily calendars with poems, inspirations and sweet little drawings meant, I believe, to start your day in a positive, lovely place. This Emily Dickinson quote appeared on June 21st. I routinely miss looking at the calendar for several days in a row, only to read quickly, tear off the day and dispose of the sheets. When I came upon this quote, I tore it off and tucked it into one of the books I am currently reading.

I have no idea in what context Ms. Dickinson made this statement or to whom. All I know is it is a statement that holds so much……trust, intimacy, understanding, reverence, respect, comfort, security, to name a few. What a compliment to have someone say this to you!

Saving the quote has caused me to think of the people in my life who provide shelter when I am with them. I have several friends I can put in that category….those who spread their arms wide, listen with pure hearts and open minds, those who don’t judge but simply hold my words, my very presence, with love. Certainly many in my family create a shelter when we speak with one another. We listen with ears that have been informed by knowing the subtle nuances only partners, mothers, fathers,siblings and children recognize after many years of living together.

This image of shelter reminds me of Psalm 91 and the song "On Eagle’s Wings" that is based on the words of the psalm. "You who live in the shelter of God, who abide in the shadow of the Holy. You say to God, You are my refuge, the one I trust." The psalm tells of someone who is in danger in countless ways. But when the writer remembers this shelter of the One who surrounds their life, this presence who hears their voice, they are filled with peace and trust that their voice is heard, they are held in love.

Shelter……it is one of the basic needs of humans. Whether built of stone or wood, cloth or mud, we all need shelter. We also need the shelter of those who hear our stories, witness to our lives, listen deeply to our voice. May each of us know this shelter of another. May each of us be this kind of shelter for another.

"And God will raise you up on eagle’s wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of God’s hand."

Enjoy the sunshine this weekend……………………