Making Space

When we made a space for bluebirds, we got bluebirds.

I have often thought bluebirds were beautiful. I never saw them much growing up and they aren’t as common as they once were. So, when my son had to complete a project for an agriculture class at school, last year, I naturally encouraged him and my hubby to build a bluebird house.

They are apparently, rather picky about their houses. They like for the hole to be a certain size and for their nests to be a certain height off the ground. They found the perfect plans on the internet and he got an A on the project.

Low and behold, we had bluebirds, the first season we put it out. They are very shy birds and although I often see them, they flee the moment they see me. I was able to capture this one after returning from a recent walk and it made me think about other things that we could have more of in our lives if we simply made the space.

Having two kids that are very artistic, I have found that when I created a space for them to create and the supplies to do it, they were much more likely to be creative, than when I left their art supplies packed away in a box and had to make a space on the kitchen table for them.

Likewise, when I decided to turn a rarely used formal living room into a writing space for me, Graceful Gaines was born.

I am aware that space is at a premium in many homes, but even a little corner with a folding table set up can make all of the difference to someone who has an ability and a desire to create, but needs a little nudge.

I once read that Mary Engelbreit announced to her mother as a child, that she needed a studio space. Their house was small, but her mother cleaned out a closet and put a desk in it for her artistic daughter. A studio was born and so was one of my favorite artists.

I also use my writing space for my place to read my Bible and jot down notes and questions I have. I can certainly read the Bible anywhere, but having a dedicated space to leave it out, open and ready to go, along with a pen and a pad, just seems to make it easier to make it a point to read it everyday.

Even a rarely used chair in a corner somewhere can serve the same purpose. Inviting God in regularly, can make any place holy.

Perhaps Lent is an ideal time to prayerfully consider what things in our lives would we give much-needed attention to if we were to create a little more space for them. They can range from creative endeavors to more prayer time. God created each one of us with unique talents that we are supposed to nurture and use for Him. If we aren’t nurturing and growing them, then we aren’t serving to our best abilities.

What areas in your life need more space?

Have an awesome day!

Wendy 🙂