I was recently taking a walk through the neighborhood on one of the last sunny days October could offer us. The baby was happy as a clam as he sat snug in the stroller. I had some music playing as we walked and I heard a voice in the quiet of my heart. It was sweet, tender, and reminded me of the presence that has comforted me throughout the years. It was a welcomed friend. I find myself in a secret place available whenever I need it as long as I close the mouth of busyness and distraction around me. There it was, the secret place, hidden on an afternoon stroll with my baby. I felt like all my fears, anxiety, and worries dripped off of me as I was overcome by the treasures in the secret place. It was life giving.
The walks in my neighborhood provide some breathtaking views.
I remember the secret place in high school. It was my truck. It was a 1986 Chevy with no power steering, a bench seat that didn’t move, and a broken radio. It was a trip. You know what, I had a love/hate relationship with that electric yellow beast. The “hate” was how often it died on me. The “love” was the 25 minute drive to school where I would have time to listen, breathe deep, and remember I am held, kept, protected, an overcomer, brave, courageous, built to love, crafted to give, and made to sacrifice. Its made up some of my sweetest memories of my high school years. It was my secret place.
When I lived abroad after high school I would snuggle up by the window in my loft space of a three story house in South London. The one window afforded to me would give a view of neighbor’s gardens, clothes lines, and the night sky. I loved it. I would wrestle with a new understanding of culture, unload my cares and concerns, and listen to the wonder. I would hear whispers of peace coupled with adventure to my young heart. It was wild, it was raw, and it was beautiful. It was my secret place.
There have been countless other secret places but they are never a glamorous space. They are usually unassuming, keep to themselves sort of spaces but complete with a serene sound for me to commune with the Almighty, allowing him to speak to me of his ways, his plans, and his promises. Its sacred and special. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
If you don’t have one yet, find one, carve it out however you can. Let the wonder whisper to you of who you are and why you’re here. Let him calm your fears and speak of glorious things. All in the secret place.
