Finding Refuge

In the first book of the Dark Light Dance Trilogy, REFUGE, the main characters meet and fall in love at a wildlife Refuge. Hence the name of the book has a double meaning—the place they meet, and the feeling of security they have when they're together. But the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is also a place each of them goes to retreat from the world. Laney has just lost her parents and little brother. She goes out to the Refuge to walk. It is a private place, away from kind but curious eyes, where she can commune with nature, enjoy the wildlife, and come to terms with her loss. In its quiet beauty, she hopes to find courage to begin again. Gabe goes to the Refuge to paint. He finds pleasure in capturing the images of wild creatures he sees in his sketchbook, later to turn them into beautiful art. This process of creating helps him forget the tragedies in his young life and the uncertain future he faces. Just like Gabe and Laney, we all need to find places of refuge in our life. No matter how good our life is—how full and busy—sometimes we may need to retreat from even our blessings, especially if they’re small people! Our refuge can be as simple as sitting in a porch swing with the scriptures or a good book (my favorite!) Or sometimes we need to get clean away and visit a new place (or a beloved familiar one), in order to restore our equilibrium. Many of my friends take refuge in running or walking. That devoted time fuels their creativity while it tones their bodies. Your refuge can be a place, an activity, or both. This year, if you don’t have one, find your refuge. Let it fuel your creativity, give you peace, and restore your soul.