December 21, 2000
Just a few more days and it will be Christmas, my favorite day of the year. But this Christmas is going to be even more special, and I can't wait! Even though I realize that December 25th isn't the exact date that Jesus was born, it is the day that we Christians have chosen to celebrate his birth, and this year, for the very first time, I'm going to do just that... and nothing more. I know a secluded place in the desert, where the nearest small town is almost 10 miles away, and that is where I am going to spend Christmas. Two years ago when I passed through this area, my RV broke down and what was to have been a one-night stop turned into a whole month. Of course, I wasn't alone during my visit two years ago because some friends parked right next to me. But that was fine, since they were wonderful people and I truly enjoyed getting to know them. But even then, I thought how nice it would be to be really alone out there. So...that's where I'm going; the perfect place to spend my special Christmas. All my life, I have sought (and found) my solitude in nature, but that was different; I was surrounded by the towering forests of the great Northwest or along the shores of the mighty Pacific Ocean. The sound of running water, be it river or ocean, was always in the background and I loved the sound. It was soothing and continual...like the heartbeat of Mother Earth. But in the desert, there will truly be silence.
I plan to spend at least 10 days (Christmas through New Years) alone with just my thoughts. I'll study the Bible and fast and pray for at least three of those days...allowing myself no "earthly" distractions, such as radio, television or reading (anything other than the Bible). I'll use that time to reflect on how I can best use my "gift" to bring people closer to Jesus...and through him, closer to God. Over the years, I've often written poetry about the Lord, but I was always asking something, or praying for something...never just celebrating his glory. Now I need his help to inspire me for the daunting task of somehow using my gift to make a difference.
"Never second guess the Lord", my mother recently said to me. And she was right. I shall spend Christmas with Jesus...and ask for his guidance. What a wonderful Christmas this is going to be!
I spent the last week performing here in Blythe, California but I'll be leaving tomorrow morning. Just think, by this time tomorrow night, I'll be parked in my desert hideaway! On that fine note...Adios my friends, and MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Abigayle
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