Things We Leave Behind

"Honey, did you get a new purse?" My hubby called from the hallway.

"No. Why?"

"Whose white bag is hanging by the back door?"

"One of the gals forgot that after our Bible study lunch today."

And beside it hung a potholder left behind by another friend. And in the closet rested a pair of shoes forgotten by one of the writers who came over for the monthly retreat day.

Just a few inadvertent remnants from visits of the past week.

Then there are the intentional items. The gift of a puzzle, a book, a card, a plaque, a sweater. Everywhere I turn I'm reminded of the people who intersect my life.

But more than the tangible bits and pieces that are sometimes left in the wake of visits, friends have left other, larger things behind. Echoes of laughter. Memories of heartfelt conversations. Swirling creative efforts that filled each room. Scents of quiche in the oven and tea steeping in assorted mugs. A redolent spirit of prayer.

We all leave something behind, in every encounter we have with another person.

Lord, I fear that I often leave behind self-important opinions, echoes of ugly whining, insistent striving to be understood. Please forgive me and deepen Your heart in me. When I move on from a conversation, please help the thoughts, words, and spirit that linger be filled with truth and grace. Reflections of You. That's what I long to leave behind. Amen.