Returning

On the shores of Lake Erie is the place I long to return. Centering Space. By now, the beautiful gardens are coming alive after their months of winter dormancy. Next door, in Lakewood Park, the walkers, runners, bikers, and solace seekers have returned to take in the beauty of lake views, leafing trees, and all manner of creatures emerging to feel the warmth of the sun. Inside Centering Space, with windows open to the Spring breezes, the events in this place invite me to come once again to connect with others, to slow down, to notice what my inner life is asking of me.

I first found Centering Space more than a decade ago. As a Columbus resident unfamiliar with the Cleveland area, I was introduced to this place by my Bay Village friend, Julie. Since that time, in-person and online, I have participated in prayer groups and poetry discussions, book studies, writing classes, concerts, and celebrations. From mere acquaintances, I have made good friends whose faith, humor, and perspectives have changed me for the better. Through week-long private retreats, I have learned that time away from others can nourish my soul.

This past month, I (along with others) helped our dear friend Joyce through her last weeks with brain cancer. She was saying goodbye to a previously rich and joyful life and to her two daughters, one with a 5-month-old baby and the other expecting her firstborn any day now. It was a privilege to share this time with her, to pray, cry, and sing with her, and to comfort her. She passed quietly on April 10th in the early morning hours. She lives on in my (and many others’) now heavy hearts.

Tonight, as I write this, I am looking through the May event schedule for Centering Space with my calendar in hand. It is time to make my way back to the place where I can pause, reflect, and connect. I am certain I will return home comforted and with new grace to live God’s beautiful season of Spring. I hope to meet some of you there.

~Teri Leitwein