Barn Chronicles: Volume One

And so it begins.

For those of you who are not aware, I will be living in a barn for the next month.To clarify, there are no animals in this barn (though there are two horses, several chickens, two dogs, an owl, and some unconfirmed raccoons nearby).

I'm learning a lot, even in the short time that I've been here (I moved in today). I thought it might be fun to share some of what I have been learning. Thus, for the next little while, Third Chronicles will masquerade as its alter ego, Barn Chronicles.

Lesson One: Barns Shrink Problems

Barns are what one might call...vulnerable. For example, I possess a great deal of intimacy with the outside world. There are several ways in which an animal could somehow wander into this place, ways that I'm not certain I can readily seal off. I may end up making fast friends (or eternal enemies) with, say, a raccoon. Or a deer. Or a chupacabra. I'm not sure what animals might come exploring. On top of this, I essentially live in a horror movie plot. How many movies involve someone hanging out in a barn and then getting murdered? I don't know, I don't really watch horror movies, but I'm guessing a lot.

When I think about this, all of the other problems in my life start to shrink. It's harder to worry about little things when you're confronted (even for just a little while) with a lack of assurance in your basic survival needs.

Strangely enough, I find this comforting. Thinking about only the most basic things in life provides a sense of clarity. As I and the mighty push broom Mjolnir swept out this place, my life got a thorough sweeping. Petty worries have dropped away, and what I'm left with are those things which are truly important to me; those people, things, and questions which are truly dear to my heart.

The practicality of this for those not living in a barn? Consider the advantage of a change of setting. Put yourself in a place where only the most basic needs must (and can) be met. Even if it's only for a small period of time. Do this at least once so you know what is most important to you, and then carry that knowledge out into the next chapter of your life.

Assuming I don't get mauled by a bear, I'm excited to see how this experience will shape me. Let me know if you have any fun ideas for things I should do in a barn. Who knows when I might get another chance?

With God's love and grace (in a barn),

Taylor

P.S. I'll have pictures up soon so people can see exactly what I mean by "barn."

P.P.S. Barn barn barn. I feel like I didn't say that enough during the post.

P.P.P.S. Barn.