• We draw strength from the warmth of friends and family • Don’t neglect preparation but anticipate needs and be ready • Our actions, thoughts, and words are widespread and far-reaching • Some days and seasons are like a whirling, churning storm • Opposing forces can cause much trauma and destruction • Emotions, self-focus, and hormones steer us in vast floods • It is difficult to lower contention when we are close to the center of it • Thoughtless words spew forth like flying debris • Evacuations may be needed when faced with unhealthy situations • Water is both cleansing and a powerful force so drink wisely • When you hit hard times, lean on each other to form a strong and solid base • Come together as community when faced with common challenges • Determination, motivation, and support give strength when rebuilding • Jesus is our calm place no matter what surrounds us
– From “Reflection from the Everyday” Charlotte-Anne Allen
Hey, look at this! Could you…? “Crash!” What was that? I just found out… Did you know…?”
Distractions are all around us, pulling us away from our current tasks or thoughts, demanding our attention, diverting us from our plans! Whether building frustration or simply giving up on any thought of completion, there is often an accompanying level of irritation or resignation. Our own thoughts distract us, as we turn to more pleasant or troublesome things. Anticipated plans or activities can fall by the wayside.
What are we to do? How can we ever get anything done? … And if we do finally get our chosen or needed tasks completed, what is our final state-of-mind? We rush to get through our responsibilities so we can get on to better things and are left feeling drained and dissatisfied.
Distractions, distractions! But are they really? I have been challenged to look at those perceived distractions in a new light. As we take a breath and pray for wisdom… and a quiet heart that trusts in God’s timing, our whole perspective shifts.
In our daily experiences we begin to see these distractions as opportunities to serve others. What a great difference we make when our frustration and impatience turn more toward caring attention and love… and when we give ourselves grace and extend that grace to others when we struggle. Paul encourages us too with his words to the Romans, “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” *
May our days be filled with opportunities, our eyes be opened to them, and our hearts be encouraged.
• What music are you producing as you grow and unfurl? • As we rise, we bow our heads • Take a moment to begin each day in prayer and contemplation • A small, amazing feather enables flight • Our perceptions and expectations are steered by our experiences • Like spores, the deeds we produce affect all things around us • We seek a positive and rich environment in which to thrive • A “daily refresh” brings nourishment and health to body and soul • Beauty shines in more forms than physical appearance • Notice the unnoticeable • Tend to the weary and vulnerable • Respond gently to that which is young, weak, or fragile • Welcome the light, encouragement, and prayers of others • Shine God’s soft, healing light on those around you
– From “Reflection from the Everyday” Charlotte-Anne Allen
The Still Small Voice 