Peace and Quiet

Elisabeth Elliot wrote. “The devil has made it his business to monopolize on three elements: noise, hurry, crowds. He will not allow quietness.”

I recently sat on a balcony watching pelicans fly over the moon. The quiet enveloped me in silence like bubble wrap. But we all know the urge that overcomes old and young alike: we delight in popping bubble wrap! 
Even as I write from the front porch today, small noises intrude: birds chirping, dogs barking, air conditioners whirring, distant traffic moving. Where is silence kept?

Although the little crab in the pail looks alone, the Hilton Head beach  was filled with people that day, the Wolfe clan accounting for ten of the vacationers. Perhaps the wealthy folks’ desire for alone time and space leads them to buy islands. Yes, some want to develop mega resorts, but others may seek a respite from the throngs. 
As my ability to walk decreases, physical scurrying from place to place  doesn’t happen much, but other forms of hurrying still trip me up! I too often procrastinate and then panic to complete learning music, writing a talk, or answering a friend’s call. 
What scares me about life apart from noise, crowds, and hurry? 

One thing is the sheer magnitude of the Almighty! When alone, quiet, and still, I sense just a speck of God’s majesty. And like Isaiah, I am undone! 

I realize my arrogance and appreciate Elliot’s words: “Fear arises when we [I] imagine everything depends on us [me].”

Asking for moments of quiet today so I may hear only His still, small voice. How about you?