The Roland Allen Post

Mount Laguna, San Diego County My new blog is called 1 in7 . It features content and images on rest, prayer, learning and recreation. Many posts include curated resources for creating space for refreshment with God and others. I hope to post 1 to 2 times each week.  Inspiration for 1in7 posts comes from many sources, including books, photos, conversations and life experiences.  I welcome comments on my posts. 

My younger sister passed away early Thursday morning following a long illness. My heart is broken. I will miss her terribly.  I used to say that Harriet never met a stranger. She found something to talk about with everyone. Harriet LOVED people, and they loved her in return. She also loved celebrating Mardi Gras. And, she loved introducing me as her Big Brother.  My brother and I are happy that so many people are sending us photos and memories of our sister. We look forward to continuing to celebrating her. John 11: 25 Jesus said to her,   “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies.  26 And everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” 27 “Yes, Lord,” she answered, “I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”  

  I love a good adventure.  The emphasis is on good .  I started in Ventura and drove up California Highway 33 this past Monday. Potrero John Creek Trail was the destination.  Potrero John Creek is in the Sespe Wilderness of Los Padres National Forest.  Highway 33/Maricopa Highway is a stunning drive that quickly rises from the Pacific Ocean to over 3000 feet elevation.  Soon after leaving Ventura, the road goes through Casitas Springs, which is the home of Johnny Cash.  Cellular phone service dropped out even before I had properly left Ojai, the last town before heading up the mountain.  The trail is rocky and remote. I was not prepared for either. I was the only person on the trail. In fact, there was no one around, and car traffic was extremely sparse. I made a game-time call to venture slightly down the trail, but not to go too deep, given that I had no way to reach help should anything go wrong.                                                                                       

I discovered a nature trail in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park soon after moving to this part of Orange County. The benches under these California Sycamore Trees have become one of my favorite places to sit quietly at the end of the day. I like having a place where I can reflect on the day's events. Sitting usually leads to prayer. Prayer, in turn, leads to hope and intention.   

I am a fan of Joshua Becker and Becoming Minimalist . I want to pass along the post I read this morning.  7 Daily Habits to Change Your Life Forever

Today is my last day of full-time work. So, tomorrow will be a very special day. In addition to being my first day of so-called "retirement," tomorrow is also my birthday.  I am glad it all comes together on one special day.