We had fun last night! The last Friday of each month is an evening we devote to having people over for a 'devotional'. These take many forms, but as most of you know, the Baha'is have no clergy or 'church', so to speak, so our homes in effect become our places of local worship. Last night we were joined by a lovely group. Linda Kirby and Ben Vaughan, of the Church of Christ, Scientist, came along again. Linda has been attending since we first began these events, almost three years ago, and by her own account has only missed one. Ben joined us in June this year, as well. Also, Pam Stellick brought along a new friend, Pierre Archambault, who has a fascinating history, from Catholic to Marxist/atheist to Buddhist to Christian and now, is investigating the Baha'i teachings. Wendy James and Bernie Benoit came across the river with our friend Mary Margaret...so by 8:30 we were nine, gathered on the deck, surrounded by flowers and bird song, and reading or quoting from an eclectic selection of works. All of us kept the current world situation centred in the Middle East closely to mind, and as dark fell, the sense was palpable of how much people of all backgrounds long for peace.

Later in the evening, we moved inside and continued readings and discussions until about midnight. We enjoyed fresh cherries and peaches, Chinese cookies, fruit jellies, muffins, and the lovely refreshment of spirit, convivial and in-depth conversation, and laughter. Our home was truly 'embellished'.