I have found that to engage in rhythmic activities such as spinning, stitching and weaving allows anxiety and restless thoughts to be stripped away and I am able to be calm and centred in God’s presence. For me, this is prayer.

Presence and Prayer 

Let fibres slip through your fingers,
their softness turning to strength
as you let them slip away.
Notice the rhythmic whirr
of treadle and wheel,
put away all busy thought,
all worry, all agitation.
Feel your breath quieting
and your heart beat slowing.
And there you will find God
waiting.

See threads weave in, and out,
alive with colour, line and texture,
the mapping of your journey,
light and darkness mingling.
Allow your life to become threads,
let the Spirit inform your hands,
accept fresh understanding.
Feel your breath quieting
and your heart beat slowing.
And there you will find God
waiting.

Count down the seconds
then let them drift away
like thistledown on a breeze.
Fade out the chatter,
the hustle and bustle of busyness,
put aside the buzzings of your mind,
calm your tapping toes and restless hands.
Feel your breath quieting
and your heart beat slowing.
And there you will find God
waiting.

© Ruth Sprague, 2014