Tag Archives: joy

Fall Color

Fall color

Fall color

This fall colors in the American Midwest have been especially beautiful this year. I have been drawn to the yellows but I have seen so many shades of green, red, yellow, brown, and orange. This month I have talked about the senses on my webpage and the experiences I’ve had with color this past few weeks have put me in a place of peace and holiness. With so much chaos in the world and in our country I welcome the joy and comfort these fall colors bring. I find myself understanding the word “breathtaking”. At times my breath is taken away in a simple gasp as I am amazed at the absolute splendor of these glimpses of God’s creative spirit. As the wind blows and the sun dances on the leaves the colors change and what I see leaves me in awe. It soothes my soul and for a while I can bathe in the beauty surrounding me and forget the pain and sorrow and ugliness that beat me down. I am inspired, I feel renewed, I feel creative and nourished. Perhaps it is the enjoyment of such beauty that strengthens us to do our part in the work of making the world a better place. I am grateful for this.

Mothers and Daughters

I am excitedly awaiting the arrival of my daughter this week.  She has been living in another state attending graduate school.  This separation isn’t as hard as her first venture into independence right after high school when my precious child decided that New York City was the place for her. That big city, my little girl…well she not only survived but developed into a very savvy, cosmopolitan woman which grace and style and a degree!  It was really fun getting to know my daughter as a woman.  She’s fun and yeah, I’m pretty proud of her.  Anyway, she is now on the other coast and making her way toward a career/vocation in an area she truly enjoys.  I miss her but technology allows us to be in as much contact as we wish.  I remember writing letters to my mom when I moved half way across the country.  Times have changed and we can call, text, and Skype frequently.

I’m not going to pretend that all mothers and daughters have this relationship but I am going to say that I am very happy that we do.  I had the same kind of relationship with my own mother.  After  getting past the teenage angst, there is a mutual respect and caring for one another that makes time together precious and cherished.  So in a few days we get to see each other and bonus!  We are going on a road trip! Just the two of us.  Bet you can tell I’m looking forward to this.  I am grateful for every moment and it reminds me of the great times I had with mom, traveling and sharing time. There’s nothing like it.  There is something sacred about it.

For me, it is easy to view God as Mother.  The bonds between mother and child are so strong, of necessity and the relationship between God and us is a lot like that. The image of coming from God as a child from the womb is compelling.  It helps me to understand how much God cares, loves, feels responsible, and wants the very best for each of us.  A nice image for me.  Makes me smile.