Yesterday was about long-term plans… remaining patient and persistent…
…‘Singing for Health’ in the morning at the Seagull Theatre. Twenty years ago, Suffolk County Council announced it was preparing the site for sale; the Victorian building was to be bulldozed and redeveloped. The Save the Seagull campaign, purchase of the building, and development to become the arts venue and thriving community that it is today, took time, commitment and patience.
…Reading Annie’s Lowestoft Journal story at lunchtime. We’ve known Annie’s family for many years. The article described the horrific car crash she was in many months ago… her open leg fracture, pelvic injuries and other trauma… multiple surgeries… substantial leg brace, mobility aids and uncertain prognosis… the positive effects of pilates… regaining strength, mobility and confidence… her persistence in rebuilding her life.
…Celebrating granddaughter-Hannah’s new job in the afternoon. Eight of us caught up with family news, enjoyed a Chinese-take-away. I reflected on our family… When we got married fifty-four years ago, we couldn’t have thought about or imagined yesterday. ‘Family’ has been a long-term lifetime project requiring patience and persistence. It’s also a huge privilege.
…Watching Robert Irwin, son of Steve Irwin, on TV last night. He was describing his family’s commitment to crocodile conservation… their world-famous ‘Crocoseum’… tagging and tracking crocodiles… the largest and most successful crocodile research project in the world. There was patience and persistence – as well as enthusiasm and passion.
…Reading this morning of Jesus’ crucifixion… His last recorded conversation is with the thieves crucified with him. One says, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.’ A few hours earlier Jesus told Pilate, ‘My kingdom is not of this world.’ He’d spent his lifetime talking about his kingdom… like a mustard seed, buried treasure, a net… He’d invited his followers to be part of His kingdom-building.
…Musing now on being part of that long term project… my patience, persistence, privilege and passion… and Jesus’ reply to the thief, ‘I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.’
