There is a new house going up on my street. That makes three in the last bunch of years, which is impressive for a road two blocks long in a borough so small there is no house to house mail delivery. Every time I drive by, which is daily, I slow down and look for changes. The dry wall came on all at one. Then the garage was standing. Windows appeared suddenly. The plumbing is probably in place, though I saw no signs. It's fun to notice change in a world where much seems to stay stalled. 

 

Sometimes I see the owner walking her dog, and wave. How long until she can sleep there? I bet she hopes it will be before Christmas. How special would that be?

 

The changes happen whether or not I turn my head. But the awareness of construction keeps me mindful. I anticipate movement, and unless the weather is dire, there is. 

 

If I understand God, He is working on all of our inner houses. The places that give our spirits safe haven are not stagnant. There are improvements each day, in fact every moment. Some are less visible than others. How can you spot the absence of criticism? What does listening even look like? 

 

Some of the people in my life are growing in courage. Yet even if I turn my head quickly, there is probably no evidence of such things. Bravery is less obvious than pipes. 

 

I have a feeling that the places we live when we outgrow these humble addresses will be magnificent. And if our inner selves have become beautiful as well we will be right at home.