Apr

1

Yosemite Retreat, Rule of Life

Filed Under Life's Journey 

Jamaica and I had a great time last weekend up in Yosemite National Park. We went up on Friday and came back on Monday. The primary purpose of the trip was to have a sort of spiritual retreat. At the beginning of this year we planned and put two of these on the calendar–one in the Spring and one in the Fall. It’s a great way for us to get out of the craziness of city life, now more than ever since we live literally in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, in a loft we bought in August of 2006.

Yosemite at this time of the year is perfect because it’s off season. Great weather, minimal tourist congestion and plenty of empty trails to get lost on. On Sunday we walked about 12 miles, including a four mile walk to Mariposa Grove to see the giant sequoias. I’m not a big nature nut, but there is something hugely humbling when you’re standing right in front of it. It sure puts some perspective on things!

We spent Saturday separated from each other, as we loosely followed a pattern set out by John Ortberg. The idea was to be silent and somewhat secluded as we individually reflected, pondered, and prayed through heart issues. This was more about getting to know God better and less about getting God to answer a specific request (although no complaints if he did!).

I also spent some time working on a “rule of life” to guide my days, weeks, months and years. Simple steps I can take to make room for an ordered heart which ultimately helps to live out a more loving life.

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