by Lil Smith

the lights are out

the air is warm

it is uncomfortable

bored they say

no sounds

no screens

no entertainment

too quiet they say

fireflies

moonlight

shadowy figures

cool they say

bullfrogs

crickets

night breezes

squeals of delight

giggles

stories

riddles

sweet laughter emerges

the lights come on

the screens stay silent

sleepy ones camping on the floor

grateful for a new day to play

Play full was written by Lil Smith and originally published in House of Play, a publication or Retreat House Spirituality Center. Lil is co-founder of Retreat House. She is a trained spiritual director and supervisor. In the role of adjunct faculty, Lil facilitates the supervised practicum classes in the Perkins School of Theology Certification in Spiritual Direction. As a retreat leader, teacher, spiritual director and supervisor, Lil shares with others her passion for the spiritual life. She finds comfort with her clergy cohort, the Wild Mustangs, swimming, cooking, writing, creating new things and taking walks with her family. Email Lil.