Homebodies - Fleeting thoughts...
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- Published on Saturday, April 1, 2017
Rita Friesen
The Neepawa Banner
Years ago I was assigned a book written by Ralph Milton, ‘This United Church of Ours’. The author relayed the formation of the United churches and a history of the process. He then underscored how the church is unique and a work in progress. I liked his writing style. This week, I picked up another of his books, a collection of musings, personal and from observing this world of ours. I still like his writing style.
It came as a bit of a surprise that Ralph Milton was born ‘Friesen’ and spent his early years in Horndean. When he had opportunity to get into broadcasting, the station required him not to use a Mennonite name. Despite his mother’s plea to not change his name, he did. His writing carries a respect for his heritage and culture. One musing reflected on the meaning of the word ‘nobren’, to neighbour, or speak to a neighbour. I had almost forgotten the word. It is much deeper than gossip or idle conversation, but not as deep as theological dissertation! It is a catching up conversation – how the crop is doing, how Billy is doing in school, weather patterns, who needs help with what this week. Gossip is more like chatter, suppositions and speculations! And idle conversation is chewing on a subject and not doing anything about it. Just my view, but I enjoy a good nobren.
•So thankful for the warmer weather. Dog walking can be spontaneous. Forget the wind pants, the touque, the mitts, the parka and the heavy boots. Grab a light jacket and a little blue bag and head out. Down side is the wet. Good thing the dogs can learn new schedules. Right after a long walk, they wait in the garage while I adjust the shower temperature and then, one at a time, they are allowed in for a warm shower. They submit to the towel dry but can’t wait to finish up by rubbing their damp body’s along the hall wall. We adapt.
• I’m not the only one itching to get at yard work. Well, itching to get outside and do something. I removed the string of holiday lights from the hedge row. Chipped at ice at the north door and am eager to get at bigger projects. I want/need an outdoor wash line and I think I can do it myself. The corners of the raised garden bed need reinforcing, but I don’t want to stand in puddles when operating electrical tools. So I’ll wait.
• Once again, I am thankful for family and friends. I have the time to sit and nobren when the kids call. Pictures of the great-grands fill me with delight, sharing my family’s faith journey is delightful. There are times when I secretly smile at how wise and mature my children are – and then I remember they are middle aged. How did that happen?
Spring has sprung and all is well in my world.
