November 11, 2023

Leaves

The crunch of autumn leaves beneath my feet reminds me of the changing seasons. Falling leaves swirl around me, carried by the soft wind, twirling in the late afternoon sun. Reds, yellows, oranges, and rusty browns all speak of the shifting seasons. They cling to the trees, that source of sustenance and growth, and then finally release to their next season of fulfillment.

I think of the leaves as a reflection of our own lives. We too grow and change, drawing from God who is our source of strength and grace, and travel through our own seasons and experiences. We are lifted and sent forth to encourage and build up others around us, offering care and a bit of wisdom from past experiences.

I gently swoosh the leaves in my path, as I watch a couple’s dog joyfully bounce through the mounds of newly released leaves. His joy brings a smile to my own face, and a hymn of rejoicing based on Psalm 100 sounds in my mind.

“Oh, be joyful in the Lord all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness.
Come before his presence with a song. Bless the Lord! Bless the Lord!”

May we be as newly sent forth leaves, rejoicing as the Light shines upon us and as the wind of God’s Spirit lifts us up. Let’s breathe deeply of His presence and step forward with Him by our side, soaking in the peace of a hard day done or lifting words of thanks and song.

Charlotte-Anne Allen

November 5, 2023

Hello, I See You

Hello, I see you
Standing there
Unsure and shy
Face full of care

Peeking from
A lowered head
Ready to run if
Unkind words are said

I pause and smile
Speak with gentle voice
Offer kindness and love
It is a good choice

A timid step forward
To a welcome… receive
Now quiet touch
Acceptance believe

Charlotte-Anne Allen

October 27, 2023

Discern

Do we take notice
Or feel a need?

To seek, to sense,
To understand

Not always so simple
Like looking through fog

A lighthouse shining
Will help us see

Recognize goodness
and our own straying ways

Distinguish, discriminate
Discern

-From “My Words to Live By”
Charlotte-Anne Allen

October 20, 2023

Reflections on Roadways

• Sometimes we need repaving and make-overs
• Life’s storms and seasons can cause much wear
• Potholes can develop during rough times
• Preparation is important for getting anywhere
• A caring hand in times of hardship helps prevent accidents
• Travel slowly in adverse conditions
• Smoothing the process allows for optimum progress
• Look for opportunities for doing good when you’re out and about
• We have a common need to move forward
• Take much thought when considering your route
• Don’t be afraid to explore
• Side roads and country routes can lead to less stressful opportunities
• Rushing about leaves little room for introspection or service
• God travels with us over many types of terrain

Charlotte-Anne Allen

October 14, 2023

Serenity

For a peaceful heart
Or a calm state

Come now
to this quiet place

Rest for body,
mind, and soul

Draw fresh from One
who makes us whole

Know God’s breath
A stillness true

One day at a time
To see us through

Charlotte-Anne Allen

October 8, 2023

Let’s Take a Walk

“I need a break. Come on. Let’s take a walk!”

Growing up in a small town, it was very common to see our neighbors strolling down the sidewalks in front of our house. As we greeted each other they would occasionally stop to chat for a few minutes. It was a place and time of closer communities and greater security. We kids were always racing up and down, our shoes pounding the ground as we played and talked with friends in nearby yards.

Walking. Wearing shoes… Even with our occasional disagreements or upsets, we valued those friendships. That makes me think of another kind of “walk” and “shoes.”

What do we do when we see real or perceived differences in others, whether big or small, that we disagree with? I know that, for myself, these are especially important times for me to step back and try to see and understand things from their perspective. We have probably heard or said, “Put yourself into their shoes” or “You haven’t walked in their shoes.” For some things it’s just a simple and easy adjustment or a matter of miscommunication. Other things may be big challenges.

A neat word for being aware of and responding to something or someone is “sensibility.” It makes me think of “the ability to sense things” about situations or others. Considering things from the perspectives of others is key to empathy and compassion… or just plain dealing with the stressors of life. It reminds me of Jesus’ words to “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:28-34)

So, let’s take a walk, in community, and nurture our sensibility. My prayer for us all is that we continue to grow in wisdom and understanding. May we learn to love better and to see others through God’s eyes, uplifting each other in prayer and grace.

Charlotte-Anne Allen