I used to feel like downtown Seattle was this magical far away place. It was complicated to get to, it was expensive and you had to look nice. Now I know these are crazy things to think but it has taken me awhile to shed these thoughts and embrace what downtown really is.
I am there most hours of my week and some of my weekend. The bus is full- people checking their email, facebook or skills at a game. The flute player sometimes welcomes me with Amazing Grace. There is a cup of coffee that is $1.09 and keeps me company for 2 blocks. Truth sits with a sign and a empty hand as I pass by. The hussel and weaving in and out gives me joy instead of frustration. I have become familiar with this place, I feel a sense of place through the routine.
Last week my dad came downtown for lunch, we met at the Deli across the street and touched base. As the converstation went on and the topic became more developed and understood, I asked my dad a question that was hard to speak and I imagine harder to answer coming from his daughter: "where are you leaving room for God's grace in all of this?"
He wasn't ashamed or hurt, he simply caught his breath and said "that is something I need to think about much more"
Admist the constant honking, yelling and brushing up against passer-bys; both of us were forced to stop. We were forced to make space to breath and think where there were not wide open spaces. These types of conversations usually happen at Vashon, where we can digest the thoughts over an extended meal. but I was thankful that we had this time together, to feel this place in a new way. God is allowing me to call downtown home by showing me this is a place that I can breathe, think and love.
