Forecast

Clear today and not a cloud,
The sun is warm, and body relaxed.
When life is good, I walk about,
And pause to give my thanks.

Sometimes the fog descends on me.
It’s hard to see ahead.
Gloomy thoughts blot out the sun,
And anxiety hovers near!

The wind will often tear and break.
It throws us for a loop!
What’s down is up; all now is snarled,
And chaos strives to reign.

When frigid times do freeze my brain
I find I cannot think at all.
Pain or stress, or simply choices,
Cause me to become immobile!

Heatwaves come and sunrays fry.
No relief in sight amid the drought,
But seeking hope when growing parched.
Where is water to be found?

Clearing air, shows me the way.
Cool soft breezes, touched by friends.
Calming care, to lift and sooth.
Helping hands, to offer aid.

Hearken

Soft rustle at woodland’s edge
Shyly peering out at winter’s passing

Long slumbering beneath earth’s cold bite
Now reaching out a questing toe

Chill breezes steal day’s brief warmth
And residents shiver in protected nooks

Frost yet bites tender growth
Then yields to dawn’s new light

Nostrils raise to scent and tread
And life stirs within seed and soil

Rain-washed earth and ways are
Streaked with plants’ golden offerings

Stone and wood yield welcomed warmth
Hearken, hearken …

Honor

What ones have we to call their name,
Of high respect and great esteem?

Ones standing strong for honesty,
Upholding fairness and integrity.

We honor those of thoughtful nature,
That strive for clarity, and are without deceit.

Of strong beliefs and moral support,
Unafraid to speak the Truth.

What do we see? What good repute?
Not built on worldly wealth or power.

Living the values of selfless service
Courage, duty, … and loyalty.

In daily living they make their mark
In what they value and all they do.

Honor


From “My Words to Live By”

Sacrifice

Giving selflessly is not always convenient.
When done in love, this is no loss!

Offered in laughter, pain, or sweat,
The greatest sacrifice is self.

Look then at our world around us,
At those who give in sacrifice,

Parent’s heart or family’s bond
Friendships dear or stranger’s face.

Giving brings the greatest gains,
Healing, helping, lifting spirits.

True sacrifice… It takes more effort
And it comes from deep within.

Love’s celebration. Glad thanksgiving
Greatest sacrifice … Savior’s touch

Freshen

A puff of wind upon my skin
And sun’s rays transform the day

Memories of morning’s dreary sky fade
As time’s settled dust is chased and lifted

Freshen, freshen
Earth’s voices call

Splash of water, clean and pure
Songs and rhythms now renew!

Darting fish in coolest depths
Shading trees unfurl green buds

Freshen, freshen
Healing nourishing

Dusty feet and weary minds
Shed discontent… stretch and rouse

Quickening hearts claim moment’s peace
Restore, revive … and freshen

Offering

To give our mite
Generous in all sincerity
Whatever that may be
Life’s greatest joy
Love’s cherished gift

Guarding things closely
Greed or fright overrule us
Do we cling distressed
Comparing uncertain? …
Shall we consider our offering?

What we have to give
Is unique to each one
Greater than wealth can buy
What good do we crave?
Now give of it freely!

Just look around you and offer.
A smile a touch a friendly word
Says you’re valued and not alone
A penny a need a lift a deed
Given with humble helping hands

Times of plenty and great celebration
Or a world of chaos loss or suffering
Making days brighter lifting spirits higher
Let’s give our mite to show we care
… and make an offering

Warmth

A comfortable chair beside a fire

A jacket drawn tightly against day’s chill

The smiles bestowed on gloomy days

Sun-soaked sand upon bare feet

Soft fur of pets beneath chilled fingers

A baby cradled in one’s arms

Bright rays shining through window panes

Snuggled beneath covers on a winter day

A friendly touch and welcoming greeting

Hot cup of drink held between our hands

Homemade soup to sip and savor

Thoughts and remembrances bring to mind

Warm arms and warm hearts to warm one’s soul

Ah, blessed warmth inside and out

Enter

Standing at the threshold
What lies ahead
Sunlight gleams
Pointing the way

Pausing attuned
Listen to silence
Or the singing of birds
Peaceful and warm

Drawing breath deeply
Fragrances from life
Bring back memories
Poignant or comforting

Searching eyes seeking
Cool shadowed woodland
Bright lawns or gardens
Faces and homes

Reaching out a hand
Taking the first step
New year’s dawn brings
Anticipation and prayers