–
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
The journey was long
And the way was hard
Over steep rocky places
And mountainous trails
… Now he’s here!
Tired out and hungry
We patiently went
Trying not to be anxious
Though thirsty and hot
… He’s here!
In uncertain times
Will there be a home
What about my loved ones
How will we survive
… But he’s here!
Missing my family
So far far away
How I long to be near them
And share the good news
… That he’s here!
Home safe and sheltered
Though not what I thought
Only a few visitors
To brighten the hours
… And welcome him here!
Look to the future
One day at a time
Be strong there’s tomorrow
Hear Mary’s good news
… for Jesus is here!
What’s that I hear
Loudly scolding “intruder intruder”
Leaping now up grand oak tree
Peering out from high above
An interruption of day’s work
Those wily robbers of bird feeders
And gatherers of nature’s bounty
Ready against winter’s chill
With flip of bushy tail
Now return to busy preparation
Planting storing, hop and poke
Now where did I leave that
Home sweet home in arching bowers
A comfy den or nest just right
To snugly curl within
Awaiting spring’s first touch
Restful quiet
When exhaustion looms
Comfort and calm
And blessed to relax
Help and strength
So much appreciated
Release of stress
Let go anxiety
Welcome peace
Amidst changes and challenges
Calm assurance
And seeking patience
Grant contentment
When all is done
That light may enter
And joy possess
Walk this way. I’ll lead you.
Another journey has begun.
We will be companions
As we tread a common path
Walk this way. I’ll lead you.
Staying by your side
And when the way grows rough and steep
My helping hand is there
Walk this way. I’ll lead you.
Together whatever befalls
Sharing hope or wiping tears
Laughing living praying going
Walk this way. I’ll lead you.
The Lord your banner
Brown soil
Deep roots
Drifting clouds
Growing fields
Warm breezes
Flowing waters
Food and drink
Nourish all
Times rhythms
Rising waning
Warmth and sun
Cool night sky
Heaven’s lights
Called by name
Gathered closely
God sustains us
Soft rain
Water quench
Cool breeze
Air alert
Welcome meal
Taste nourish
Warm bath
Cleanse wash
Cool splash
Face sooth
Quiet rest
Sleep relax
Ended work
Satisfaction complete
Favorite music
Thoughts encourage
Heart stilled
Prayer listen
Refreshed
Happiness
Quiet gladness
Appreciating the small things
Who one is
What one has
In need or in plenty
Rest for weary
Knowing ease
Body, mind, and soul
Encouraged
Faith received
Now lifting strong
A sigh a stirring
Cool touch at day’s end
Moist whisper speaks
From night skies and
Its indrawn breath
Stills the voices
Of insects and frogs
As the first taste of
Nature’s drink descends
From my open window
I breathe deeply
Releasing the day’s work
Welcoming the growing
Soft patter of quiet drops
Refreshing quenching
Soaking into thirsty soil
As downspouts begin
To gurgle and wash away
Accumulated debris
Drops rustle leaf and limb
As they dip and sway
Now flowing eagerly
Drawn into seeking roots
And renewing souls
Bright and cheerful
Head uplifted
Wide open face
wreathed with joy
Follows light’s source
As it crosses the sky
Warmth and sun
Infuse with health
To sooth and nourish
Ease pain and bring calm
Now smile and partake
Of nature’s rich bounty
May we too be as
The noble sunflower
