It had been a frustrating day. With so many decisions to make and so many things that could go wrong, I decided to stop what I was doing. I needed to take my mind off of things for awhile so that I could clear my thinking.

“I’ll cut the grass!” I said.

It was a hot day, mid afternoon and very humid. Not the best time to take on such a job. Still, I thought it best to go ahead with my plans.

Cutting grass is a mindless task and while I really needed to stop thinking, it provided even more time to dwell on it all.

An hour later, I was tired, over heated and still frustrated.

“Well, I’ll put some music on and do the kitchen floor,” I thought.

Not even thirty minutes went by and I was even deeper into all my confusion.

“Maybe I’ll clean the bathroom, too.”

I did and still could not let go of it all.

Since my wife takes care of many of the other chores, there was nothing left to accomplish.

“A cool shower will help relax me.”

It was then that I found the peace I was searching for.

Oddly, I found it in my towel.

Frankly, this wasn’t the first time. There is something about it that settles my soul.

Stepping out of the shower, I took the fresh clean towel and gently nestled my face in it. Pausing as I often do, I had what I refer to as a “life echo.”

A “Life Echo” is something from out of the past that lifts my soul. They are never bad memories, but little joys that at the moment they first happen are tucked away as if to say, “That’s a keeper.” Then, when I need them most, I call upon that moment to remind me what life is really all about.

So what treasures do I find in a towel?

I see images of lying on the beach face down just after getting out of the water. The warmth of the sun on my back contrasts with the chill of the dampness in the towel. I am at peace.

As a child I can remember Mom wrapping a towel around me as stood up in the bath tub. I felt loved.

Today with my face still buried in the towel, I can see my own children running from the pool, shaking, giggling with a teeth chattering chill.

Reaching for their towels I would say, “Come here. Let me warm you up!” Then I held them in my arms. I am loving.

I sighed as I realized the answer I was looking for was there all along.

God in His infinite wisdom holds us, wraps us in His loving arms if only we let Him.

“Come, stop your shaking. Let me hold you.”

“Life Echoes”…peace, being loved and a loving God.

“I believe in you!” Bob Perks Bob@BobPerks.com

copyright 2004 Bob Perks