simar@tds.net

People say I’m organized.  I keep to-do lists and cross out the items
one by one.  My calendar is filled well in advance and I must admit—I don’t
like surprises or interruptions.  A busy day, even if busier than I would
choose, is acceptable as long as it is predictable.

This week a snowstorm changed my itinerary.  I had planned a few days
with my elderly mother while my husband is gone on business.  My bags were
packed and my schedule cleared.  It had been an unusually busy month with work
and deadlines; I hoped to get away and regroup before the next onslaught.

But when I looked out at the snowy drifts and heard the weather
reports, I realized travel was impossible. Normally I would have been angry and
frustrated over the interruption of my agenda.  After all, I had
cleared my schedule and planned it for weeks.  Mom expected me and looked forward
to my visit.

Instead I felt the sweet nudging of the Holy Spirit.  “I’m giving you a
surprise,” He whispered to my heart.  “A gift of three days with
nothing planned.”  An overwhelming rush of excitement flooded through me.

An unexpected surprise. Out of the blue.  No demands.  Just these
precious hours all to myself. Time to read or write or work on neglected
projects.Time to relax and enjoy the beauty of a winter snowfall, listen to the
silence of snow-muted woods.  Like a kid whose school closes during an
unexpected blizzard, I feel like shouting.

This joyful gratitude leaves me amazed. God knew I needed this even
though I didn’t have a clue.  In my endless pursuit of getting things crossed
off my list, I never considered scheduling a day of freedom.

Miraculously, my schedule allows me to visit Mom next week instead. 
She says the change of dates actually works better for her.   I shouldn’t
be surprised; when God does it, He works out all the details.  And He
knows what we need.

Thank you, God, for this sweet gift, this luxury of free time.

My times are in your hands…Psalms 31:15

Copyright 2006 by Candace Simar