Surrounded by people every day, with very long days, it can be hard to find a sense of peace, let alone solitude.

The Red Cross is a mostly volunteer organization. They give up time away from work, often using their vacation time that is meant to renew the soul. Instead they come and help others find their footing again after a disaster. They give up resort vacations and quiet time with family to sleep in shelters with strangers.

Tonight I signed into one such shelter, where my cot is so close to my neighbors that I can barely stand between them. The single shower had a 24 hour wait list that runs all through the night and day.

But all around me spirits are high. Yes, there are tired bodies, but they have smiling faces that know they are doing a good thing for their fellow human.

So how do they find peace and renewal when they spend 24 hours a day with others all around them?

In small ways: Gumby selfies, Skype with lovers, crossword puzzles, yoga mats, prayer, singing, puppets, laughter, awe of nature, journaling and hugs.

I have not seen anyone dance it out yet, but I am pretty sure it will happen sooner or later.

For me, it was a good book on headphones, knitting for my kid in my hands and then after, singing through Holden Evening Prayer. We take what we can get and are ever so grateful because we see that it is possible to renew the soul amidst chaos and pain through gratefulness.

I am grateful. I have a home, a family intact, a mate who supports my crazy adventures, frienda who love me, and a community who prays for me. For this, I say, “thank you, God” and my spirit is renewed. Amen. May it be so.