Think now deeply
Weighing in your mind
Not speaking in a rush
Or acting before you find
Ponder things anew
And again, if need should be
For ears that will listen
And eyes that really see
Quiet considerations
Be still and take your time
Through prayer and meditation
Upon the mountains that you climb
And may those reflections brighten
Like a peaceful path on a clear sunny day
Lord, help us to live joyously
Wisely following you in every way
Charlotte-Anne Allen
“Oncet” there was a Beginning
And from that shone a great light
Illuminating a realm so vast
So glorious to one’s sight
Infant call upon that plain
In wonder and great delight
To run, to swim, to fly so free
On limbs uncertain and new
Now we in our own garden
Living laughing where they grew
Making a difference as we follow
What will we bring and do?
… What words spoken of our “oncet”?
Charlotte-Anne Allen 6/2/2023
** “oncet” (wŭnst) adv. “once”
Southern & South Midland US
• A good foot rub relaxes body and soul
• We often take things we use daily for granted
• Comfort is bare feet on the cool grassy ground
• Bringers of good news are like sunshine after a cloudy day
• Be mindful of where you go and whom you walk with
• Travel brings new discoveries and renewed relationships
• Stand firmly for goodness and justice
• Consider possible consequences to avoid slipping
• Some paths are full of rocks, roots, and washouts
• Wisdom speaks from experience
• Heed words of wisdom to avoid stumbling
• It’s good to put your feet up and breathe after a busy day
• Walk through life seeing interruptions as positive opportunities
• Follow the feet of our Shepherd
–from “Reflections from the Everyday”
Charlotte-Anne Allen
When in the boat and on the way
Do storm clouds strive to lure us away?
Or climbing trails as we then go
Enticing side paths beckon so?
Perhaps in strolling through the mall
Let’s grab the grand and ditch the small?
When at my place reclining at last
Has a chance to serve come… and passed?
Eyes travel to what’s not mine
Make excuses that it’s just fine?
To follow desire when the time’s all wrong
Will there be regrets before too long?
Ears listening to words of spite or strife
What does that do to encourage life?
Fling the door open to invite
Help from God to shine the Light
Temptation scatters as He brings the best
Strength to overcome and then to rest.
Hebrews 4:14-16
• Breathe deeply and fully as you move through each day
• Stout support is important when faced with slippery slopes
• Persevere through difficult spots
• When the way is uncertain pause, wait, and pray
• Those who go before us make our own destinations possible
• Be sure of the one you are following
• To avoid danger or loss be aware of the path
• Follow the signs when you need to change directions
• Be alert for snares along the way
• Making hard decisions not to follow poor leadership brings reward
• The narrow road may climb and twist, but the crest is sweet
• Easy stretches are welcomed times to catch our breath
• A cloudless sky and shining sun warm the spirit
• Quiet hush and cool mists bring peace to the soul who listens
• As you pass through golden meadows, remember life’s simple treasures
• God is like a cool drink from a mountain stream
from “Reflections from the Everyday”
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
• Consider what ingredients are important in life
• What is put in the mix affects the outcome
• We pour out ourselves in offering and service
• Timing must be considered
• Watch for the bubbles to rise before turning
• Patience and a steady hand are needed
• Use a little oil and keep it hot
• Remember that splatters can burn
• Following directions improves results
• Toppings can sweeten the meal
• Enjoy the plain and savor the taste
• The Recipe-Maker forms the batter
To summon request
Appeal to be done
In service and action
With both heart and mind
Listen and follow
With passion and strength
Give heed and attend to that
Call
From “My Words to Live By” c-a allen
Oh, anticipation and beginnings
Of firsts and next and looking ahead
Of getting up and rise fall rise
Of prayers and plans and seeking quests
Of strength hope joy to follow a path
Of steps begun walk onward
from “OF… Songs of Life” Charlotte-Anne Allen
The Still Small Voice 