Friday, April 21, 2017

Spring Awakenings

As the season of Spring brings new life, hope, and renewal, so does turning another year older bring me new possibilities of moving forward in my personal journey.  This April I turned 53, and I am not afraid to tell my age one bit.  I am thankful for everyday that God gives me breath on this side of heaven. The older I get, the less I am concerned about age and the perverbial fountain of youth.  Hooey on that stuff!  One thing that life with chronic M constantly teaches me is to definitely NOT sweat the small, silly things. Embracing the beauty and goodness around me is what keeps me focused on the positive even on days when it may be really difficult. Life is all about fully living in this present moment and paying attention to it. 

Being aware of my surroundings is like going on a daily treasure hunt for me.  I am like a crazy woman scouting our yard and neighborhood with my iPhone snapping pictures of all the gorgeous signs of new life.  The trees, bushes, flowers and plants are bursting forth with blossoms of brilliant colors and deep shades of green. The squirrels and the chipmunks are running around busily and full of life as they seem to almost play tag games with one another.  My heart is always happy when I see my favorite bunnies hopping about the yard chewing on grass trying not to be seen. My ears are in tuned to the various birds tweeting and singing as they are constantly eating at our bird feeder.  They are my "outside pets " which are really easy to care for!  The adorable woodpecker is comical and provides me entertainment while I sit at the kitchen table and view his antics out the window. 

It is apparent that the interior work of Winter is now bearing sweet fruit.  I don't want to miss a second of it because it passes so quickly and then the newness of the fragile transition is gone...

There is a hymn that I grew up singing that I believe captures the essence of my message.  It is beautiful.  I invite you to listen and pause just for a little and give praise and gratitude for all the gifts and blessings which surround us.    

Happy Earth Day to all! 

Here is the link to the hymn by John Rutter. 


 
 
 

3 comments:

  1. Lisa,
    I love that old hymn I grew up singing. I do believe that when you have physical or emotional pain and struggles, on the days you don't you appreciate God's goodness so much more and realize what stuff is not worth sweating over. Yesterday as I made calls to set up my surgery, a goldfinch, a bluebird, cardinal, and blue Jay all came to my feeder at once. God's lovely creation just outside my window. Joining with you in celebrating the rebirth going on all around us!!
    Blessings sweet friend,
    Bev xx

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  2. Lisa,
    I love that old hymn I grew up singing. I do believe that when you have physical or emotional pain and struggles, on the days you don't you appreciate God's goodness so much more and realize what stuff is not worth sweating over. Yesterday as I made calls to set up my surgery, a goldfinch, a bluebird, cardinal, and blue Jay all came to my feeder at once. God's lovely creation just outside my window. Joining with you in celebrating the rebirth going on all around us!!
    Blessings sweet friend,
    Bev xx

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    Replies
    1. I guess you read one of my blog postings before I corrected the final version. I found a picture of a woodpecker. I am not familiar with this new blog app and I am messing up a bit! 😑. Yes, I am indeed lifting you up in prayer regarding your upcoming surgery!! So very sorry you have more pain and recovery to endure. Bless your heart. Getting these health issues in order is never simple. You are doing such amazing work with your organization and I know you will be ready to heal quickly! Keep me updated, Bev.
      God's creation is such a beautiful blessing and I feel grateful to allow myself the time and space with which to be intentional in responding to its gifts.
      Watch those adorable birds and let your pain go. All will be well.
      Hugs dear.

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