One of the things that Sabbatical seems to bring about, or at least it has in my case, is a period of self-reflection and examination. I have just finished a book about Sabbatical, and it suggests that discovering new things about self is one of the benefits of taking time out from the regular activities of life.
One of the things I have realised this past week is something that came as somewhat of a surprise to me, and it may do to even those who know me quite well. For well over forty years I have bought, read and collected American superhero comics, with my favourite characters being Superman and Batman. I have a vast collection, probably in the thousands by now and until a few days ago thought that this collecting would continue well into old age.
Earlier this week I suddenly realised that I’d lost interest in the colourful exploits of America’s finest. I was still buying, reading and collecting, but the joy has gone out of it.
I’m still reflecting on why.
Perhaps it’s that the newer generation of writers and stories don’t appeal or perhaps I’ve just grown and changed (dare I say matured?) so that what once brought me pleasure no longer does so. Perhaps it’s my growing interest in my model railway hobby and the realisation that my personal financial resources are limited.
Whatever it is, it’s a realisation that has come to me because the church has given me the gift of being able to step aside from my regular life and responsibilities and take the time to study, think and reflect. Perhaps the realisation has come from the change that Sabbatical often brings to the lives of those who take it seriously.
At the beginning of my Sabbatical I dedicated it in prayer to God and I wonder what else our loving Heavenly Father will reveal to me and how he will bless me in the two months I have left before returning to Circuit life and responsibilities.
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