Saturday, June 30, 2007

GodSpeed, Jess

I can't fully explain what a joy it's been to have Jess here the past few days. She's such an easy guest, full of interesting stories and able to go with the flow. Yesterday we left my house about noon and didn't get back until after 8:00pm, each little thing flowing into the next. And she flowed right along with it, even though it wasn't what we expected to do or really were dressed for.

In fact, she introduced me to a great little tea shop down in Westport. Yep, that's right, the guest introduced the host to her own town. How great is that? We went to a self-defense class at the salon and then had lunch with Barb (Barbara Robinette Moss) at a little Thai place and then the three of us went to Westport to the tea shop. She introduced me to bubble tea, which was interesting if not fabulous. (Jess assures me this place doesn't make it right.) Eventually, Barb's husband, Duane, joined us and we got a drink at a little outdoor joint. Jess kept her equilibrium through it all, even though some of it (especially the class and the outdoor joint) included some odd folks and sharp edges.

Maybe Jess has learned to keep the Second Agreement: Don't take anything personally. She has a copy of the book with her, and just before sitting down to write this, I flipped through the pages and came to this: If you keep this agreement, you can travel around the world with your heart open and no one can hurt you. . . You can choose to follow your heart always.

So, I'm getting ready to wish her well and watch her disappear down the street, following her heart and the stories of her family. I'm so glad she stopped here at the pond for a bit. Her visit reminds me (though I never actually forget) of the power and grace of this group of women. It reminds me of what can happen when you open your heart and take risks. It reminds me that all we need is love.

Godspeed, my friend. Traveling mercies.

7 comments:

Alijah Fitt said...

I haven't read the Agreements, but these make sound sense to me. I have been reading Jess' site as you posted this . So cool. Traveling mercies times two!

Jess said...

Thank you, Jerri. I'm speechless. Had such a great time with you. Good thing I get to see you tomorrow in Iowa City!

The drive to Fairfield was beautiful and green, but the coffee here sucks.

Oh, if anyone is interested, there are more pictures of us from yesterday on my blog.

riversgrace said...

Lovely all around. We get the fruits of that visit, too, simply in the reading.

Terry said...

I just found your blog while "surfing" and have enjoyed your writing. I look forward to seeing new posts and delving backwards to see those you have already written. Terry

Deb Shucka said...

I'm feeling sad because your house is Jess-less now.

I just read Barb's book and am totally in love with her and her writing. I finally made the connection with what you've been saying since last Feb. and am totally blown away. So cool that you two are friends -but certainly no surprise.

Thanks for the reminder about the Agreements. Just what I needed today.

Love.

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful week you have had. Well deserved visits, from some very special people. I am so glad you were able to do special things with Jess and Katie. Each visit sounds magical. What wonderful memories you will have. I love the agreements, not taking things personally, is something I struggle with a lot! Thanks for the reminder. LOVED the pictures. Cheryl

Amber said...

I am happy you had such a good time. I have never hear dof bubble tea...Hmmm....

:)