by Suzanne Guinn

I love resting my body

in a macrame hammock

It is one of the most relaxing

and awesome experiences

to be enfolded in its cocoon-like shape

as it curves around my body

I can gaze at the sky

seeing all kinds of creatures that fly

over my eye gaze

And the cool breeze of an early

spring day creates

an ideal setting to experience

the holy around me

I feel all safe and secure

in that moment in time

Where it is only God and I

in communion

and the care of the world stay at a distance

Hammock Play was written by Suzanne Guinn and originally published in House of Play, a publication of Retreat House Spirituality Center. Suzanne was born in Fort Worth, Texas. Her grandparents had a dairy farm there when the area was still open farmland. That is where Suzanne began to dream about God, surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation.

After reading many famous poets, she wrote her first poem in fifth grade, complete with a drawing of the scene. Writing and drawing pictures has been the way God general helps her process the pain and joy of her life and ministry. Suzanne is active in peace and justice issues in her church and community. She has been an ordained minister for 18 years and currently serves as an Interim Pastor in the Lutheran Church. She has served as a pastor, hospital chaplain, and campus chaplain at a continuing-care community.

Suzanne has two young adult nieces and one nephew. She enjoys getting together with friends and family as well as finding quiet time and taking long walks outside. She is currently in the writer’s ground at Retreat House and recently published her first book of poetry. Email Suzanne.