The Sounds of Home

The other day our daughter put away something in the buffet in our dining room where we keep our napkins, placemats, and tablecloths. Even though I wasn't in the room, I knew that's what she was doing because the drawer squeaked the way it always does when that drawer is opened or closed.

That squeak caused me to think about the familiar sounds we hear repeatedly in our home. The door that closes in a certain way, the footfall that I can identify with my eyes closed, the barking of the dog when a delivery truck arrives--they are all part of our life at home. Even though squeaks and other sounds can sometimes be irritating, the sounds of home are reminders of the great blessings we enjoy. For instance:

The sounds remind me that I can hear.

The squeaky buffet drawer reminds me of the great bargain the buffet was when my wise and artistic wife found it at a garage sale. It also reminds me that our family just enjoyed a meal together.

The chiming clock that belonged to my grandparents reminds me of the precious family heritage we have.

The phone ringing tells me that perhaps a friend is calling or perhaps a customer is wanting our help--and both of them are cherished blessings from God.

The music I hear my child listening to--again--reminds me that she can hear, and that her heart is being filled with good things--much better things than are going into many young hearts these days.

The sounds of home remind me that I have a family, and a home, and that we have a good life that we enjoy together.

When a house is empty, when everyone is gone, or when a loved one is taken from us, the familiar sounds fall silent.

Thank you, Lord, for that squeaky drawer.