In the beginning

Some people have a clear agenda for their sabbatical - a program of study - pilgrimage - a host of new and interesting experiences.
I too considered starting a PhD or an MA.
I looked at Retreats.
In the end I chose nothing.
I did this partly because Linda has started an MEd and two of us studying seriously would send the household into freefall; someone has to wash, cook, chase children etc.
I also know that some things, like rest, creativity, reflection and prayer, need time and space.
So although there are a few things planned - trying my hand at rowing - a bit of decortaing, gardening, a short pilgrimage to North Wales in the footsteps of RS Thomas - and a week in a monastery in New Mexico - there is a still a lot of nothing in the sabbatical.
At this moment I am twitchy about the space that has opened up before me, but I also know that I need to hold my nerve and allow for emptiness.
So, in the beginning, on day one of the sabbatical, there was nothing - it's the best place to start.