And how good it feels to leave all that complete and appreciated and go on to something so much easier, but no less demanding of spirit and mind and body.~From Eugene H. Peterson's journal in the book, A Burning In My Bones by Winn Collier

A year ago, I retired from the helping profession as a counselor. I spent twenty-six years in the field. The work was a good fit for me. I had the privilege to engage with real and authentic folk, both patients and colleagues. I loved the people and loved learning new ways and paths to collaborate with them. I loved the one-on-one interaction. Listening. I never really dreaded going to work, but I became weary after a little more than a quarter-century. There was a part of me that could not wait to shut that door behind me. To rest. To declare a sabbatical.

The year has provided me the margin I so craved. I'd planned to work another few years, but I couldn't stick it out. I didn't want to. The well was drained. So, I've rested and encountered sabbatical. Basked in silence and solitude--spiritual, mental and emotional sustenance I never could seem to get enough of while working.

This week I read the biography of Eugene H. Peterson, A Burning In My Bones, by Winn Collier. You are likely familiar with Eugene H. Peterson as he is the man who translated The Message Bible. While I would never compare myself with this brilliant man, there were many parts of his personality that I could identify with. He exhibited  dynamic and outgoing relationship and communication skills, though introverted. He pastored Christ Our King Presbyterian Church in Bel Air, Maryland for thirty years, and often felt pulled in too many directions--family, ministry, speaking engagements, writing. He longed for spaciousness and freedom. I related. I've experienced an ache and sadness to let go of my role as a helping professional, yet I do not regret my decision. Some ask, "Now that you've had your sabbatical, what's next?"

Mr. Peterson made this statement after he retired from the pastorate: I feel that to keep my sanity--my spiritual sanity--I must simply walk away from the demands and duties and create. Work at my own stuff. I am willing enough to return after a few hours to the responsible and the routine--but if I cannot pray and run and read and write I cannot live. Me as well.

This morning I read from Eugene H. Peterson's masterpiece: Show me how you work, God. School me in your ways. Take me by the hand. Lead me down the path of truth. From now on every road you travel will take you to God. Follow the Covenent signs. Read the charted directions.~Psalm 25:4-5, 10 (From The Message).