presence

by Maggie Scout

Lift up your heart to him during your meals and in company; the least little remembrance will always be the most pleasing to him. One need not cry out very loudly; he is nearer to us than we think. ~ Brother Lawrence

It was the end of the day and they took their time leaving.  But she had come to accept it and stood back watching as they lingered together in hushed sounds and movements.  Always stalling and wishing they could stay … just a few moments longer before stepping back into their lives.  The desire to hold on to an experience of the inexplicable; a presence of something tangible yet unseen.

Sally sensed it too and was certain she could open twenty four hours and people would still find their way here.

She turned the ‘closed’ sign against the door and locked it noticing the clouds gathering and rain fast approaching the shore.  The atmosphere had darkened and was heavy.

Your turn for the tea!

They both laughed.

Tallied up and tidied up, kettle on and loose tea in the pot,  china cups and leftover cake, it was time for Sally and Alice to sit for a while, quietly reflecting on the day.  They easily resisted the temptation for gossip.  Instead they shared their observations and encounters and took a moment to be thankful and wonder and plan.

Will the book club be starting back this week?

I think so.  I think leaving new invites on the tables would be a good idea.

She might come.

Yes, she might. 

I’ll get the shutters.

There’s a storm coming Alice.