We went on a holiday recently, to the beautiful south coast, and on the first day we all felt off kilter.

Before we left we farewelled a much loved teacher of the boys. She called the students her kids, and they felt the love and care she offered so incredibly deeply. The world felt different without her in it.

Our first day of the holiday nothing seemed right. I was in pain from sitting too long, the place we stayed was not as expected, work was still weighing us down and we were feeling the loss of Mrs D.

As we swam in this gorgeous water, I was acutely aware of, and disappointed by, the fact that we take our pain and problems with us (without the comfort and distractions of home).

Interestingly though, it enabled us to sit with our pain (and not escape it) in a place that slowly allowed some peace. As we walked on the beach and through the bush daily, as we kayaked, as we swam, the sharp edges slowly softened. I was reminded of sea glass that is pummelled and tossed and turned in the sea and eventually becomes smooth.

This place, this beauty given to us by God, allowed us to soften the edges of our pain so that it felt easier and safer to handle.

Matt 11:28 Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.