so Many Joys Already!

It’s hard to believe that I’m only on day two of retirement and there are so many joys!

We had a marvelous joy that the settlement of our house went incredibly smoothly. Thanks to our realtor and friend Carrie Shinn, it was just absolutely incredible. As I left the house this morning, though there were tears in saying goodbye. It has been our refuge and the trees have nurtured me immensely. But it is time to call a new place home.

As we wrapped up final details at the post office, the bank and got our RV ready for storage until we return later this month, I found it hard to believe that I didn’t need to check emails, text or meet deadlines.

The reality kind of set in when DARYL and I took a swim in the pool at our hotel. We’re staying overnight in Sacramento for our early flight tomorrow morning. As we relaxed and exercise, we laughed and smiled at each other and said isn’t this marvelous?

I’m discovering though, that there is a whole bucket full of emotions. excitement, trepidation, and wonderment! I said to Daryl, “My motto is to go gently and lovingly into each day.” Those of you who know me well are probably askance at those words. Why she runs on rollerskates most of the time! She’s always doing something! It’s true however, don’t put me into a box. I can change as life changes.

One of the things that will be changing is my name. Yep at 71 years old my name is now going to be Bonnie Lee.

Actually, it’s not a change. When I was very young, I lived with my natural family and I was always called Bonnie Lee. It was kind of a tradition in Virginia and in the south to have a double name. When I went to live with a foster family, they said you are not going to be Bonnie LEE, you are going to be Bonnie. That was part of their intention on removing my identity and trying to create a new one. Guess what! I’m still Bonnie LEE on the inside and I’m gonna claim it now. My brothers and sisters called me Bonnie LEE because that’s how they remembered me.

You might ask why I would do this at this late date in life. It’s because I’m somewhat returning to my roots.By living in the Southeast I will have a flavor of life with which I am familiar.

I’m glad my roots weren’t stuck there. My roots extended far into the world where You all became branches of great delight and offered me shade and welcome and hope. I’m incredibly grateful for all the people that have led me to this day. You all, whether you are church members, friends, or family, fellow singers, and previous coworkers, my life is so enriched because you are in it. I’m particularly blessed that I’ve had fantastic 20 years of ministry. Before that I had jobs that I loved and opened up a plethora of deep relationships that continue to this day.

I’m carrying these marvelous connections into retirement with me. I’m thinking of how so many people stood by me doing my two struggles with cancer, the death of our beloved son Chad, and many other trials along the way.

There have been miracles and healing along with laughter and tears. So as I enter this next part of my journey, I take the treasures of you with me. It is amazing that all over the world I can connect with friends and we can share stories and share love that brightens the world.

So for now, if you will, please call me Bonnie Lee. It’s the name my natural parents called me and even though I barely knew them because of being in foster care almost all of my life, I want to celebrate it now. I invite you to think of your name and the beauty it holds and the identity that you find there. May doors of gratitude open for you.

Spiraling into Joy, Bonnie Lee