Spread its arms so round and true Joined together clasping tightly Firm boundaries to speak and declare Now look to the center to show us where
Moving turning in ordered motion Complete and whole so satisfying Gaze around in awe and wonder Savoring the vastness of eternity’s splendor
As swirling water released down drain Wind-chased leaves tightly lifted up Rain’s swift drops upon mirrored surface And sun, moon, and planets of glowing hue
A rounded loaf and water cup In busy pursuit upon bowl’s rim We meet ourselves upon life’s cycle
Pause and muse on earth and heaven Our quest in life and the circles we touch …The infinite love of God enfolds us Gathering welcoming upon this circle
• Notice the everyday fine things of life all around us • Our surroundings affect us in many ways • Small experiences can add up to big challenges • Life’s happenings carry our thoughts and feelings • Be in prayer when encountering caustic influences • Negative self-focused inactivity can breed discontent • Regular cleaning of harmful particles is helpful • As wind blows, intention moves us forward to clear the air • Disuse and disinterest may result in loss of skills and potential • Be aware of how accumulated hurts and trauma affect relationships • Positive pauses and stillness can bring relief and rest • Wisdom grows from built up experience • Allow wisdom to lift, heal, and encourage others • God cleans the accumulated “dust” from our souls
From “Reflections from the Everyday” Charlotte-Anne Allen
Did you have a blanket or toy you were attached to when you were a child? I remember the Raggedy Ann doll that my mother made for me. I loved that doll and the comfort it gave me! One summer I took it with me on a trip to my grandparents’ home and was quite concerned until my youngest cousin returned it after carrying it around for a while.
Whether it’s a cozy blanket, special toy, the company of others, or perhaps a special place or person… those sources of comfort stick to our memory, don’t they? Comfort is something we crave from birth, turning toward the source of nourishment and security. I think of newborn Jesus comforted by his mother, wrapped in warm cloths, cradled in her arms, and laid in the security of the manger. I imagine Joseph caring for them both and the light of God’s presence there with them. Can’t you just see that in your mind?!
Think of how Jesus was a source of comfort and healing during his time on earth. Before he was taken back up, Jesus told his disciples that God would send an Advocate or Comforter, the Holy Spirit, to them (John 14:26-27). We are not alone. Then Paul talked about the “God of all comfort”. I love how he went on to say that God “comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” Comfort is something that we share with others, whether it be through words, actions, or simple presence and support.
As you cherish your times of comfort or see a child with their comforting “blankie,” be encouraged. May you in turn reach out to others to offer your own comfort. What a better world this would be if we could be more intentional in doing that. I’m so thankful for God, who both challenges and comforts us.
• Smell the sweet, the rank, the rich variety of each day • Contentment is a choice to be pursued and adopted • Life is full when surrounded by companions amid the messes • Warmth and security emanate from care and craft • Prepare and lay down what is needed for daily tasks • Work together and receive instruction and assistance humbly • Dedicated labor brings care and satisfaction • Build strongly and wisely • Home is shelter and a quiet place to curl up • Caring for needs fortifies and feeds minds and bodies • Give thanks for warm dry shelter • We are all part of a rich stew – sheep, donkey, horse, cow, cat, dog… • The seemingly lowest of places can give birth to the greatest of light • See the Light that pierces through the dust and grime of life
From “Reflections from the Everyday” Charlotte-Anne Allen
The Still Small Voice 