Nature

February 9, 2018

Reflections on Coffee Grounds

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• Coffee comes from carefully tended and ground seeds
• This tending brings forth the flavor of the coffee bean
• We all benefit when we care for each other
• Mutual caring develops the gifts we have been given
• As we ripen we are made ready for use
• Roasting prepares us for the future
• To bring out the best flavor we are ground exactly
• Ground beans have great potential
• The wash of water brings out good and needed qualities
• Enjoyment and satisfaction come from well brewed cups
• Old experienced grounds have much to offer
• We owe much to the Tender of the beans

January 12, 2018

Reflections on Skunks

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• Unexpected or misunderstood actions can create alarm
• We raise the alarm when threatened or endangered
• It is wise not to ignore a warning
• When alarm is raised we may react unwisely or prematurely
• When we react unwisely others are affected
• We often emit foul odors when threatened
• Attempts to protect ourself may be perceived as being antisocial
• Beauty is difficult to see when we focus on the negatives
• Negative expectations can create bad outcomes
• Positive expectations guide peaceful encounters
• Skunks want to enjoy good food and family like we all do

December 29, 2017

New Year’s Dawn

Snowy morning_cropped

Northwind chill and bundled frame
Speaks of New Year’s coming dawn

Sunlight bright or blowing snow
Quiet breath catches in anticipation

Laugh of children and calls to come
Homemade soup to warm one’s bones

Barking dogs or honk of horns
Season’s tide begins to turn

Twilight’s glitter and dark’s bright star
Contemplation of time now past

Frosty morn and day’s cold rise
Hope’s dream and New Year born

December 15, 2017

Reflections on Snowmen

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• We all feel a bit rolled about sometimes.
• As we roll about, we accumulate stuff.
• That accumulated stuff contributes to our formation.
• As we are formed and grow, wondrous things can develop.
• Development comes individually and with others.
• Much enjoyment can be had when friends create new things together.
• Added accessories increase appeal and develop personality.
• Materials needed for use may be seasonal.
• Each season brings its own appeal.
• Simple pleasures and activities bring joy.
• A snowman’s stay, although short, brings smiles to others.
• A smiling face lifts one’s spirit.

November 4, 2017

REFLECTIONS ON PUMPKINS

pumpkins n pie

• The Vine provides nutrients for us to grow.
• We all have a purpose in life.
• To be best used, we need to be cleaned out.
• Once cleaned out, there is opportunity for nourishment and enjoyment.
• A light within reveals character.
• Ripe pumpkins announce the new season.
• Seeds are useful for nutrition and future plants.
• Combining with other ingredients can be amazing.
• Sharing these creations brings smiles.

October 30, 2017

AFRAID

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Flash! … Boom! Crash! Crackle! As lightning flashed and thunder rolled late one night, I leapt from my bed and ran to the doorway of my upstairs bedroom. As a young girl many years ago, I still clearly remember how afraid I was. I called for my father, my voice almost drowned out by the storm, and he came up to assure me that all would be well. His comforting presence stayed with me until the worst of the storm had passed.

Jesus’ disciples were afraid during a storm too. As they were crossing the Sea of Galilee, a sudden storm came up and the boat was in danger of sinking. Jesus had fallen asleep, but his disciples awakened him; he got up and rebuked the wind and waters and calmed the storm. *

There are times in life when I am afraid. I’m afraid for my family and others when they face health challenges or accidents. I’m afraid of dangerous weather and travel conditions. I’m afraid because of uncertain times, strained relationships, or changes in life situations. Sometimes I’m afraid to try new things or to step out in a new or different direction.

When Jesus’ disciples were afraid and amazed after Jesus calmed the storm, Jesus spoke of their faith and when my father came to me during the thunder storm, his presence calmed me. I had faith that my daddy would take care of me, that I would be safe. When we feel alone, overwhelmed, and afraid we can remember the words Jesus spoke to his disciples in his final days with them. He encouraged them to have faith and said that he would be sending the Holy Spirit to be with them forever: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. **

God surrounds us with His presence, the storms pass, and the winds calm… Peace to still our fears.

*Luke 8:23-25, **John 14:27

October 14, 2017

Light Dancing

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Light dancing on splashes
Of gold, red, and orange
Beckons to passers-by.

Greens and browns
Wave their fronds,
Seasons past and to come.

Evening’s chill
Brings thoughts of tomorrow,
As time tolls; prepare!

Day’s warmth
Welcomes memories
Of life, laughter, and tears.

And so we dance,
Welcoming light’s hope,
In quiet contemplation.

And so we dance,
Resting sorrow
In those swaying boughs.

And so we dance,
For life’s joys
In our Creator’s being.

Light dancing on splashes
Of gold, red, and orange
Beckons to passers-by.

September 3, 2017

Draw Near

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I love the scents and colors of herbs. In recent years, I have begun learning a bit about how to grow and gather a few of them and about some of their uses. I enjoy my little spots in the flower garden and pots on my sun porch and I help with some at my in-law’s home. “It’s a happy,” as my daughter would say as a child to describe something she liked. Not all my growing attempts are successful, but repeat attempts are sometimes more fruitful after I learn more about them. Some creature (perhaps a rabbit?) thoroughly enjoyed my in-law’s basil this year, which had to be replanted two times! Then too, I find that some plants are just not suited for the areas available, so other plants are found that will flourish there. Herbs, used from ancient times to improve health, to treat illness and injury and to cook with, have much to offer. Like insects, we are drawn to them because they can provide comfort, healing, and enjoyment of growing things.

As I was considering this, I thought of how God wants us to draw near to Him. He loves for us to come to Him and to thank Him when we are enjoying the scents and colors of life. When we draw close to Him we are recognizing who He is. God can show us where we will flourish when we are receptive to His offered gifts and guidance. He is the source of comfort and healing. Have you ever been to the point where you just didn’t know what to say or do, or even if you wanted to try?! While all our “growing” attempts are not successful, God helps us to thrive. I am so thankful for those around me, people who reach out or give a hug or word to help through difficult times and to join in times of celebration. Sometimes we need to be “replanted” and sometimes we need to be faithful and to learn so that we can thrive where we are. I’m so thankful that He is with me, especially on my “I’m just done” days! Draw near. Like insects drawn to herbs, we are drawn to the One who provides, who is the source of life.

But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all Your works. Psalm 73:28

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you… James 4:6a