Whitman Mission

Maybe it was the open skies with gentle, hanging clouds drifting over the deep blue beyond.
Maybe the few birds singing songs carried by the breezes,
Up above and around the hills and trees and fields.
Maybe the view of distant snow-dusted little mountains.
Or simply the blessing of being alone with God amidst the reviving natural beauty,
Pondering a hope and a history:
A calling, a commitment, a new life, a mission, a family...
A loss, a blindness, a tragedy so deep and wide it is still remembered and mourned,
Even after a century.

I wanted to think deep thoughts,
To hear loud the call of God on my heart
Right then and there.
I waited...
But all I got was a still, small voice--
And that was really just the wind, mostly.
What did He say?
Well, without words, I think He said:
"Peace, my child.  I love you deeply.
I have an important work for you too,
And it might cost you everything.
But do not fear.
You'll never walk alone."