Activity

*Creeps in through door as silently as possible*
The hugeness of the hall is daunting, and yet the air from the open window seems to beckon me deeper into the unfamiliar room. The scent of apple wood draws me in. How curiously alive the air feels! My gaze sweeps over the people gathered about the table. New faces, young faces and yet comrades in arms. I add another log to fire, observing more before willing to place myself with the others.

I glance around the table, wondering if I’m, for the first time in a while, one of the older ones present. My eyes drinking in the sight of everyone’s faces around the table, breathing in the feeling of fellowship. Though I am unfamiliar with the hall, the feeling of home settles on me. How far it seems I’ve traveled in this strange world. How unexpected and yet how welcome is this gathering to me.

I brush the dust from my chair, my fingers tracing the carving of birds in flight, or in nests, or simply in song. Small, fragile creatures made to praise their Maker like me. My hands draw out the heavy wooden chair, then I take my place with the others.