Dear friends,
I have been pondering what to write today. We have had a Meditative and beautiful Holy Week and a joyful Easter celebration. I wonder what resonated with you this year and how it blessed you.
I was struck, and am hugely thankful, for the many hands that helped make it all happen.
As with any big event which has so many moving parts, it can feel exhausting for those carrying most of the work and responsibility. Having a few days to rest and let it all soak in is welcome and important I think.
In the Eastern Orthodox tradition this week is called Bright Week. I love that. A week celebrating and leaning into resurrection joy.
I for one have spent most of it pottering at home and in the garden. In a literal sense, what a ‘bright’ week it has been! Consecutive days of sunshine and warmth. A chance to fling the windows open, dry laundry on the line (nothing like the fresh smell it gives in my opinion) spending time with family and tending to the garden.
So dear reader, I am grateful for the luxury of being able to slow down for a few days. I find that it enables me to be fully present in the moment and for me this brings joy and a great sense of peace.
It’s an opportunity to reflect on what is truly important and to cherish it.
Cherish is one of my favourite words actually and like joy, it’s an active pursuit and one that helps to nurture and create balance, resilience and hope. We and the world need more of this I think.
I wonder who and what you are cherishing this bright week?
Love
Julia
Julia Jones, Churchwarden