This morning I was thinking about love and being ministered to personally by my family while staying in their homes. As part of my commuter strategy for my new job, I often stay mid week at one of the houses of my relatives- daughters, son, and aunt. This way, I'm hoping to tread lightly in their personal space and not burn anyone out from continually giving me shelter. I could commute each day back to Provo, but right now, I don't want to. It's been most helpful giving additional time to explore Salt Lake and familiarize myself with its' various recreational resources available for my clients. I am growing to appreciate Salt Lake more as I focus on all the good this fine state has to offer.
But more than the wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources, family members are my greatest resource. Spending time with them individually is a priceless opportunity to be in their presence. They serve and support me in the most wonderful ways. It's a new stage in my life as I travel with my carry-on luggage (my knapsack on my back) singing "I am a happy wanderer" while couch surfing with relatives- even though most of the time, I'm in a series of very comfortable beds.
I bought a brightly colored, bohemian looking bedroll for $7 that's bringing me a lot of joy these days-mostly for the current lifestyle it symbolizes. It reminds me of my old 70s looking children's sleeping bag with it' brightly colored flowers and print reading, "Blondes are fun, Redheads are for real, and Brunettes are groovy." Sleeping in the homes of family members truly is "groovy" and these days I'm feeling the love in each one of my temporary living situations.
My son's house is the most Bohemian in the classic definition of the word, "a socially unconventional person, especially one who is involved in the arts." His home is so full of life-literally. He is surrounded by his animal family of dogs and cats as well as the temporary animal tenants from the doggy day care service he supports. These animals are receiving attentive, loving care. His home is also full of original music, writing and art. He is continually creating. He is an amazing one man band. Each nook and cranny tells a story. This rental home will eventually be torn down by the owner to make room for a multi-plex, but in the meantime, it is being filled with life, love, and art. It is beautiful in an unconventional way.
I recently paid for some health services for my son in exchange for massages. Though he is not a certified massage therapist, in my books he is. It is precious currency and this energy work takes a lot out of him. He has to be in a certain frame of mind and sometimes he's just doesn't have the energy. It is an energy transfer and it is difficult for him to put himself in that situation to take on the pains of someone else when he is already dealing with his own pain.
So I understood when this week, he said he wasn't really up for a massage. However, later he stated he could give me 30 minutes. I am grateful for whatever he can give as I make my way to the massage table. I've had several professional massages. They are great but there is something unique about having my son serve me in this fashion; It is truly an unselfish act. It is an act of love. It is artistic expression.
He took more than 30 minutes as his massage choreography was perfectly synced to his musical playlist. He didn't rush through it, put minimal effort into it or do it in a "I have to get this over with" type of attitude. I am much more selfish and weak when I give massages. I suck. He was totally present and considerate. It fired off so many of my love languages: acts of service, quality time, touch, and gifts. For me, it was as tangible as any gift. It was what he had to offer, and he offered his all, even though he was already emotionally depleted. I was spiritually touched by his loving ministration to the needs of his mother. His service was sacred to me.
It was also symbolic of the loving service I am receiving from so many different hands from other family members. They are also giving me what they can give. They are personally attending to my individual needs. It is so much! I am overwhelmed with their generosity. I so appreciate each kind act and consideration for my person. It is a beautiful thing to behold. It really is a "groovy kind of Bohemian love." Thank you family!
