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August 19th.
2009
LIFE CYCLE
It was one of the determining factors in us purchasing
our 1905 homestead house over 17 years ago. The house was a step up from
a shack. However, the surroundings, the view and an old barn sealed the
deal.
The years have taken a toll on our old barn. Contractors, roofers and
good friends have all suggested that we should probably tear it down
before it falls down. Yet, it was not only a place of storage, not only
a place of fun, it was a place filled with memories. When the boys were
little it was always a great place to hide during games, a farmer’s
market for selling weeds, anything the imagination could create. Hazel,
our golden retriever, gave birth to believe it or not dozens of puppies
in the barn.
The winter of 2008-2009 was too much for our old barn. During the heavy
snow accumulation, like many other roofs in our area, it collapsed. Once
again we accessed, we pondered, we even thought about letting nature
take it’s course and let it fall down in its own time.
However, the lovely Mrs. Prior was the first to come to her senses as
she made the bold proclamation, “Honey, I know we love the barn but it
is not safe and we need to take it down.” I knew she was right, but I
loved this barn and all that it has meant to our family.
Driving around the corner heading toward our property after work one day
last week I noticed that the upper level of the barn was gone and next
to it was a larger pile of lumber. My heart sank, yet I knew what had
happened. Knowing how difficult it would be for me to “strike the first
blow” my family had begun the process of dismantling the barn.
Over the last week it has become the family project to take board after
board down and add them to the ever-mounting pile. Initially I made lots
of comments under my breath making one last attempt to “save the barn.”
Yet, as the site began to clear the conversation shifted from what was
to what could be.
The absence of the barn has opened an incredible view from our bedroom
window. It is also in a perfect spot to plant a garden, especially the
raspberries I have always wanted to grow.
The cycle of the faith journey continues. Life – death – new life. Our
lives are filled with times of great joy, then loss and grieving and if
we open ourselves to it – new life. Unquestionably I will truly miss our
old barn. Yet, my mouth is already watering with the idea of a raspberry
patch!
Blessings,
The Rev. Brian N. Prior, Rector
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