My "Gilead"

Last month I "escaped" to my aunt Trudy's house in Ohio. I needed to get away for a little while for some peace and quiet. Even though I can hear wonderfully with my cochlear implants, there are still times in my life when I crave the peace for my soul that comes with silence and solitude. . . away from the noisy world with no distractions. I've been going to Trudy's house every year for the last few years and look forward to my time there and spending time with her. She is my mother's younger sister and I'm close to her. She bought this place in the country several years ago to get away from the noise and haste of city life. This, too, is her "Gilead". . .

My prayer partner understood my need to get away and reminded me before I left that "Gilead" means "healing waters." I've always loved the song, "There Is A Balm In Gilead". . .especially the following verse:

"Some times I feel discouraged,
And think my work’s in vain,
But then the Holy Spirit,
Revives my soul again". . .

It takes me almost nine hours to get to my destination. As I was driving, listening to music, praying, and meditating, I was talking to God and thanking Him for taking me to my "Gilead." I heard a still, small voice say, "Dear One, I AM taking you to your Gilead." Then it dawned on me. . . .Trudy lives in Mount Gilead! I love how God works and speaks to me through people, places, and circumstances.

I had a wonderful week in my "Gilead." Slept, ate, read, exercised, sewed (I took my sewing machine, too), visited with family and friends, and just plain rested. It is so peaceful here. I wanted to stay another week. I also took lots of pictures!

Trudy's House

Cornfield Next to Trudy's house

"Healing Waters" in front of Trudy's house across the road

Trudy's front porch swing where I had my morning coffee in solitude. Trudy and I had some good conversations here, too. Her next door neighbor has a rooster that crows at the crack of dawn. We would sit here every morning, waiting for the sunrise and the rooster. But, never heard him.

My Christmas Tree Quilt that I made at Trudy's - I still need to quilt and bind it before I can hang it up for the holidays.

Aunt Trudy and MeEntering Mount GileadJeremiah 46:11 (The Message) "Oh, virgin Daughter Egypt, climb into the mountains of Gilead, get healing balm. . . .