My table (aka desk) is positioned by the window, the shades are open and my view is the concrete wall of the basement window egress. .

Several friends and I have rented a home for a writer’s retreat and my room is in the basement. This is perfect because it’s cooler down there and, thanks to menopause, I have my own internal heater.

At last year’s location, I was on the main floor and had a beautiful view of the landscape and surrounding houses to look at when I needed a break from the keyboard and laptop screen. This year, I have a concrete wall…unless I look up. Since my table is right next to the wall, I don’t even see the house next door because of the angle. From the other side of the room, I can see the house next door, but not when I am sitting at the table. I only see the sky.

And I realize that this is an even bigger blessing than a cool room in the basement. When I need a break or am contemplating the next paragraphs for my project, I am drawn to look heavenward rather than at my surroundings. There are fewer distractions and a natural inclination to add prayer to my pause.

One of my core writing goals is to bring God’s perspective to life’s activity. As I write about ordinary and unusual events, I seek to understand what God intends me to learn or do as a result of going through daily life.

I had become too comfortable seeing things from my perspective and figuring it out by myself. This week, I will be routinely and frequently reminded to look up and pray for God’s guidance.

“I lift up my eyes…From where does my  help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. (Psalm 121:1-2 ESV)