I never knew how deeply fulfilling and satisfying this life of sharing together every day would be to me as I was tending it. I remember one day thinking in great surprise, "Being a close family community is so deeply satisfying."

Now that my children are adults, they are my most trusted friends. Our little community of Clarksons, with all of our peculiarities, limitations, and challenges, is our mutual favorite place of being and gathering. We share in common our ideas, ideals, books, philosophy, world view, favorite Scripture. We like the same brand of tea. We talk a lot when together.

Scripture tells us to “do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Though I was flawed, I did give my all to be excellent, to be generous in life-giving hospitality, to seek to inspire through my words and devotions, to love with all of my heart, giving enthusiasm and spirit to this wonder-filled life.

Were there conflict, challenge, weariness, discouragement at times? Yes, of course. I was a warrior fighting to bring light into a dark world. I had few support systems and fewer encouragers who believed in what I was doing. Yet one more quiet time, one more reflection on our ideals, and it would take me through another day, another year. And truly, the seed was growing deep roots that eventually manifested fruit.

Read more about this in Awaking Wonder.