Join the Spiritual Thursday round up at Reading, Teaching, Learning.
When you laugh, I’ll laugh with you.
—The Servant Song
I drive the highway south to New Orleans fairly often. There is a bridge overpass that is quite faulty. This used to frustrate me because suddenly my car was bumping up and down jarring me out of whatever thought I was having. Once I was driving this road with my friend Cathy. We were making a day trip to New Orleans to shop for wigs and dresses for the upcoming Berry Queen ball. Already we were in the mood for fun. When the bumping started, I exclaimed my usual ugh!, but when I looked over at Cathy, she was laughing and exaggerating the up and down movement. She says with glee, “I love this bridge!”
My attitude changed totally and ever since, I look forward to the bridge. I remember the fun day we had, the laughter in Cathy’s voice, and the memory of shared joy.
Laughter is like that. Laughter can change a moment of fear and frustration into one of joy and delight. I believe God is all about transforming moments into joy.
Sunset reflection
Today I am at the lake to celebrate my mother’s birthday. My sister and her children are here. There will be lots of talking and sharing and laughing.
On my way here, I listened to a podcast called On Being. The guest was Sister Simone Campbell. You can listen to it here. One of the writing exercises I like to do is turn my notes into a poem. Here is a found poem from Sister Simone.
Walk willing.
Open hands
for the treasure
to hold, not grasp,
willing to share.
Open heart
ready to be broken
by his story,
forever changed.
Make me one part
of the one body
that Paul speaks of.
Wake me up
to do the thing
I am able to do.
One of my favorite folk hymns is The Servant Song. This song expresses the community of Christ and helps me to remember how to be fully present for others on this spiritual journey.
Reflections on the Teche 
Margaret, I love your short story of the bridge and its message: “Laughter can change a moment of fear and frustration into one of joy and delight. I believe God is all about transforming moments into joy.” Yes, God is the great transformer. Thank you for “The Servant Song.” It gave me a validating nod from the Lord that today will be spent as His servant, using my words to honor His work. Wow! In essence, your words delivered a message from the Lord today.
Your opening story is such a great metaphor for life – find joy, even in the bumps and bruises along the way! I bet there is a lot of laughter at the Berry Queen events – I always love seeing pictures of that. Happy birthday to your mother, and I love your writing exercise of turning notes into a poem. I need to file that away for a future classroom activity. đŸ™‚
I love how you noticed the opportunity to change attitude and did it. Many would not have followed through. I love how observant you are, Margaret!!! Looking forward to lots of laughter next week! YAY Writing Retreat!! đŸ™‚
Margaret, I love your story about the bridge. It reminds me of a singing bridge that I looked forward to when I was a child. When it sang I knew me were almost there. Much laughter. Enjoy your writing retreat. Where will it be?
I love the honesty in your words — complete. It speaks to my heart. There are many times when I find myself focusing on the negative — getting tangled up in things that take me out of the path I intend. Most times it just requires a simple shift in perspective. I needed that reminder, even if I never travel over your bridge, I will now think of you when I cross one. đŸ™‚ Enjoy your writing retreat. I cannot wait to see what inspirations you have —
I’m imagining you driving listening to Sister Simone, putting this all together in your head and then reaffirming your commitment to be present for your mom! What a journey. Enjoy next week!