A member of the parish
“You’re nearer to God in a garden…”
It’s not for nothing that this blog is subtitled “Musings of a British Eccentric”. How many people say: “Hiya, babes!” when they spot a blackbird whilst walking through their local park?
Just for the record, the blackbird was unimpressed.
The above photo was taken this morning, in my garden. For the photographers amongst you, I used a digital “bridge” camera, and fingerless gloves.
I have today off. This is not a given with my current day/night job, so I like to enjoy my Sundays when and whilst I can. I had thought about attending the local Quaker Meeting, as I find associating with the Friends both restful, and inspiring.
Today, however, this is my church:
Less “here is the steeple” than “I’m a little teapot”
In place of incense, there was the – relatively – fresh air. As for the choir, they sang beautifully. For example, there was:
If only this collared dove realised I’m vegetarian.
The nature of my life, and health, means that I spend a lot of time juggling a job with varying, unsocial hours, and the interests and activities that I enjoy, and usually keep me well.
Emphasis on “usually”.
Whilst I love my work, it can be intense. So an early morning escape to some green space – however small, and scruffy – can be make a difference between coping, and thriving.
This is my church. And I thank the gods for it.
What, another teapot? Yep.
I’ve come inside to write this. The advantages of being out in the garden began to be outweighed by the fact I was struggling to feel much sensation in my feet. Time to make a fresh pot of tea, maybe some toast, and do more prep for Saturday’s radio show.
Enjoy your Sunday. And have a lovely day.
sheila north 
Don’t take it personally. Blackbirds are frequently bad tempered, owing to their real name, which is Turdus merula. And of course they’re from the Thrush family – they got teased a lot about that at school too.
we always say hello to birds. Also squirrels, foxes, trees, weather fronts…