Quiet Time - Poem

Before you read this poem, please know that I know that I am not a poet - but I do like to string words together in a poem every now and then. I wrote this about 3 years ago and found it again recently. 

Quiet Time

I’m one of those seekers
I’ve read the books, heard the speakers
Even asked my mentor how’s it’s done
Decided it's time for me to do one.

A quiet retreat, alone with God
Some might think it is rather odd
But I know that it will be good
Just like they all said it would.

I’ll sit, be still and wait
It will be just great!
I’ll get answers and advice
I might learn how to be really nice.

So away I go with a friend
Two days we will spend
Our wish we will fulfill
To be still, very still.

We came armed with a plan
Made before we even began
A few hours each day
We'll go our separate way.

Off I go by myself to find a spot
I settle on the porch hoping there's nothing I forgot
Because once I start being still
I don't want to stop!

I’m ready to have a go at it
The candle is lit
On the table I have a leaf and a rock
And a feather from a poor bird in some flock

(I collected them this morning on our walk

Back when we could still talk)

Okay, thank you God that I can be here
I really want you to be near
Nothing will interfere, my focus will stay clear
Not a distraction, no other thoughts will cross my mind
As I think of you all the time.

What was that, I heard some thing
I don’t want a bee sting
Ah, look a humming bird
That’s what I just heard.

Oops, this is a distraction
Was my first reaction
But I’m sure this is okay
It won’t ruin my day
Because God and a hummingbird
Are really close, I’ve heard :)

The amazing thing was
The wings make quite a buzz
And what vibrant colors on it
I watch for a bit - and then he’s gone.

But he’ll be back, I presume
And my camera, it’s back my room
God, just a minute or two
I’ll get right back to you.

Okay, now I’m set
God, you there yet?
Thankfully I do know
There’s no where you will go.

I want to show my desire for him
And not give in to my every whim
But my toe hurts, this splint is killing me
I better see with the trouble might be
Ah, the tape is too tight
I need to wrap it right.

Why do I need this dumb splint?
Why does my whole leg hurt?
Why can’t I even wear a skirt?
Why did it have to happen, God?
And now my legs look so odd!

Wait a minute, Janet, stop!
This path you must drop
Not going there today
Won’t go back to that day in May
You’re not here to complain
Don’t think about the pain!

I focus again, it’s not too late
To be still and wait
God, your peace I want to know
And my love I want to show.

Speaking of love makes me think
Of that leaking kitchen sink
Yes, when will that husband of mine
Repair that broken filter line?

He can be gentle as a dove
And that fills me with love
But the same things I like
At times make me want to take a hike.

Whoa, how did I go there
And I didn’t even leave my chair
Janet, you need to beware
So that you stay in prayer.

But this chair is really hard
I can’t help my butt is scared
But it would be easier to be still
If I just popped a pain pill.

But I didn’t bring them out here
But never fear, the kitchen is near
Another short interruption
Won’t lead me into corruption.

And while I’m in here
Since pillows are near
I’ll get one of those
Plus a fluffy blanket I chose.

I’ll go back out there
And forget about the chair
I will lay down and be comfy
Then I’ll be able to think of thee!

So back out I go
With everything in tow
Now I’m comfy as can be
And God is waiting on me.

Wow, the sky is really clear
And it’s getting hot out here
I could strengthen my tan
Now there’s a plan.

Back inside the house I go
This will just take a minute, I know
To put on my swim suit
Oh, this does not look cute!

But Janet, remember, don’t go there
Get back outside in prayer!

God, I’m back again
I’m here to be your friend
I desire to honor you
In whatever I do.

I decide not to stress
But just be still and rest
I need never fear
God will always be near.

I see his creation all around me
As close as the squirrel in the tree
And the wind blowing across the bay
On this lovely day.

I take a deep breath or two
And without much further adieu
I remember the love God has shown me
And I have to agree
The best thing I can do
Is to God and myself be true

Even if that means my ADD
Keeps me busy as can be
And quiet time … is not so quiet
God loves me this I know
And that makes my face glow!

.

- Janet Oberholtzer '06