Poiema & Glory

For many, New York City, especially Manhattan, has all the makings for total sensory overload. What else would you expect from one of the world’s most populous cities, teeming with millions of people? The city is bustling with tourists from all over the world going here and there, traffic horns blaring, building lights and advertisements flashing, street performers and vendors beckoning for attention. Ahh! We also can’t forget the smells! From delicious foods of all varieties to the not so delicious smells that sometimes emanate from the subway, your nose will get a very well rounded experience just as your other senses do.

For the uninitiated, all this hustle and bustle can be very overwhelming. Its a tremendous relief then to have a place like Central Park to retreat to. For me, stepping down into the Central Park from W 59th Street was like a welcomed hug or being at a loud party and retreating to a quiet room for a moment. It was wonderful to enjoy the rhythmic crunch of gravel under my feet on a walking path and be surrounded by beautiful trees as a brief reprieve from all the city sounds. For me as an introvert, the open space, the pond, vibrant florals, and animals were a joy to my soul.

The contrast of the still and tranquil Central Park and the ever-active city that surrounds it reminds me of the words of David in Psalm 91. Just as visitors to the park can find physical respite in Central Park, the Lord is a spiritual refuge and relief in a world that is a constant barrage of noise, trouble, and strife. Even better though, we need not hop on a subway, take a taxi or walk numerous city blocks to reach Him. He is ever-present. At any moment we can meditate on and remind ourselves of who He is, what He has done, His truths, His promises, and in so doing find comfort for our souls.

May you find rest and refuge in Him today!