How can we imitate Mary's obedience?

Consider how Mary did not attempt to take up her son's cross. She let him carry it. Perhaps this was her hardest obedience to God, even harder than her "yes" when the angel told her she would bear a son. But just think if she would've tried to eliminate her son's suffering. Jesus wouldn't have died and rose again to redeem the world! Instead, she stayed by him and endured his pain in her helplessness.

We often must do what is hardest and let our children experience the consequences of their actions. We do not do it coldly, but with compassion. We can give them medicine when sick, but sometimes there is no cure for their pain or they need to feel hurt when they have done wrong. No matter what the circumstance, we can always do as Mary did and bear their pain with them, supporting and loving them.

The TV god

The TV is an easy god to serve. If you don't like something, just switch the channel. If you feel bad about yourself, you can always find someone worse to compare yourself to. If you're feeling too peaceful, you can always find a violent cop show to take care of that. If you just don't want to think, turn on one of the myriad mindless reality shows and watch people race to make cakes as if their life depended upon it. Now that's entertainment! But most of all, it's distraction.

So serve your god by spending at least 6 hours a day worshiping it or just sitting there. It doesn't require you to actually go out and do anything. The TV god never forces you to change, look at yourself or think about your life or how you contribute to society. Of course there are religious programs and thoughtful historical specials, but you can simply turn them off when they make you uncomfortable. Switch on a soap opera instead.

Yep, the TV is an easy god to serve. And if you leave it on all day you can block out all thought, creative processes and desire to live. You may feel an urge to buy a lot of fast food or expensive jewelry items, but those are the only major side effects (if you don't count avoiding life, helping others or keeping your priorities, morals and values straight). So watch away and serve your god...50-60 hours a week should do it and you wouldn't want to steal one of those hours to go to church--no your TV god might get jealous at that and you might find yourself actually thinking spiritual and moral thoughts! Best not to risk it...

A Thanksgiving Like No Other

The table was set, the turkey in the oven, the TV tuned to the football game but where was everyone? They were in the nursery, looking at the newborn baby who wasn't expected to live. The one they said would die surely.

The mother had an ultrasound and was told the baby had serious problems and the heart was not developing properly. She wondered at this and said, "no" when advised to have an abortion.

Now her little girl lay asleep, her blond hair parted to the side, her rosy cheeks glowing. No one had said she'd be beautiful. They'd only spoke of her defects.

Lila didn't care, she had her perfect little girl and to celebrate the family was invited over for Thanksgiving. Her sister Beth insisted on cooking and Lila knew she must obey so soon after giving birth. But no one cared as the timer sounded and the rolls burned in the oven. The turkey got crunchier and the potatoes dissolved in boiling water. Everyone lingered over the crib as little Angie slept on her tummy, swaddled in a pink receiving blanket.

Beth sighed and said, "Better check the dinner." But still she lingered until the smoke alarm beckoned her to the kitchen. Expletives sounded from that direction and Maggie, eldest of the three sisters, tore her gaze from the babe and ran to the kitchen.

Potatoes runny, rolls well done, turkey dry but no one cared. Everyone talked of Angie who slept on through the raucus of the loud football game and clattering of dishes in the kitchen sink.

The women hastily cleaned the kitchen and return to the crib. Angie stirred and cried.

Prayers

I am powerless to change the way others think. Lord, grant me power to correct my thinking when it's stinking.

Help me to stop trying to fool others and myself.

Lord, help me to stop trying to control life.

Lord, you have great promises for me--I need only love you.

Kip-peeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Some dogs are leg-lifters and some are squatters. My dog, Kipper, is a squatter. He runs outside full-force, hunches down and unleashes the contents of his bladder. He isn't dainty about it, yet he feels the need to squat instead of lift his leg. Maybe it's because he pees a gallon at a time and his leg would get tired out.

When Kipper was young, he would sometimes get excited when company came over. I swear to God he had just gone outside, but when my sister and husband came over for my son's birthday, Kipper forgot himself and left a lake in the kitchen. Thank God for ceramic tile.

Luckily, Kipper is cute, otherwise...

New Experiences

My life is suddenly full of new experiences and opportunities. It's up to me to embrace these challenges and enjoy them! As I head into my new adventures, I know I will come out transformed. It is great to let go of the fear that used to accompany change and see every event as a necessary part of life and growth. I want to be always growing. That's where the excitement and spice of life lie.

A Class Act

Class. The aftermath of a simple baseball game this past week demonstrated to us this virtue which encompasses grace, patience, acceptance, humility and kindness. Armando Galarraga, Detroit Tiger starting pitcher, was denied a Perfect Game Wednesday night when the call was missed by first base umpire, Jim Joyce. Galarraga smiled upon learning Joyce called the runner safe at first. The pitcher made the play himself, and knew the runner was out -- the last out of a perfect game. Armando let up no walks, no errors and of course, no hits. But he didn't throw down his glove, stomp his feet, yell or curse. Armando gracefully accepted Joyce's ruling. Furthermore, what class the pitcher showed after the game, not accusing the umpire but telling the media he knew himself he'd thrown a perfect game. The exhilaration shined in his eyes for the accomplishment he achieved. Galarraga didn't throw a perfect game for kudos, money or history. He simply went out and pitched his best.

Jim Joyce did his best, too. For some reason, he was distracted and looking at Cabrera, who fielded the ball, instead of watching first base. He's human, but he showed class too. First, in letting Cabrera jaw at him after the call and before what would come to be known as the 28th out of the game. Then, in a class act after the game, Joyce privately apologized to Galarraga.

The first thing Galarraga mentioned in the locker room interview was the umpire's apology. The pitcher could've whined and everyone would've nodded and offered condolences, but instead, he emphasized the apology.

The commissioner of baseball decided not to change the call and the debate around that could go on for days. But we cannot debate that 1) Galarraga threw a perfect tame, and 2) everyone demonstrated tremendous class. Tiger's manager, Jim Leyland, did not even complain after the game.

Joyce had the choice of not working the plate at the very next Tiger's home game, Thursday afternoon, but he chose to do it. Before that game, Armando chose to bring him the Tiger's scorecard. The Tiger's honored Galarraga with pre-game festivities. While clearly frustrated, the Tiger's fans and organization never became ugly. We in Detroit can be proud of our city--no matter what anyone else says--Detroit was the location of the biggest class act surrounding professional sports in as long as anyone can remember. While we may be disappointed in the outcome and ask why Armando was denied a perfect game, let's remember the example that was set for the country about how to treat one another, no matter what the stakes.

P.S. They may be talking about naming the replay in baseball the "Galarraga", but I think his name should forever be used when one is talking about sportsmanship. For that was his greatest achievement Wednesday night.

Happy Memorial Day!

As we scarf down hot dogs, go swimming and relax, let's remember to honor our veterans who continue to protect the best country in the world!

An Ever Present Help

Instead of focusing on what others want me to say and do, I need to simply ask myself, "What would Jesus say or do?"

Then I need to listen for God's answer in my heart.

My motives need to shift from people-pleasing to God-pleasing. What would serve God? What do I feel in my heart is right?

The Holy Spirit dwells within me and I need only tune into his urging.

As the song says, "Come Holy Ghost, Creator Blest, and in our hearts take up thy rest."

Kipper's Krunch

My dog loves to eat vegetables and fruit! He actually begs for them more for meat or anything else. When I'm cutting up a salad or peeling an apple, I can be sure to find Kipper by my side, watching every movement. I "accidentally" drop a scrap of lettuce, carrot, or celery stalk and he's in heaven. I guess even dogs are health-conscious these days!

My Beliefs

I believe that God is doing for me what I can't do for myself--taking away my will to control, providing money for me, providing work for me, providing people to love me and for me to love.

God loves me unconditionally. I don't need to earn his love. God's love doesn't fail. He always takes care of me--he always has and always will.

I believe I am a talented writer and that my books will get published.

Ponderings

I appreciate being appreciated. But sometimes people let us down and life moves on. It's part of the deal. Still, it doesn't make it hurt less.

All That A Mother Does and Doesn't Do

All that a mother does and doesn't do...

She picks up a crying baby when she wants to sleep.

She cleans up puke when she wants to throw up.

She goes to soccer when she'd love a pedicure.

She buys gogurts when she wants a gourmet meal.

She shows you how to dust when it'd be easier to do it herself.

She helps you with math when she desires a long hot bath.

She buys you new shoes when she wants new sandals.

She makes you hot dogs when she'd like to be served.

She asks you nicely when she wants to demand.

She says "please" when tempted to say, "Just do it!"

She picks up the phone when you call even if she's watching her favorite show.

She shows you how to cook even when you've seen her do it a thousand times but weren't paying attention.

She apologizes for mistakes when raising you although she'd rather forget them.

She tells you she loves you and how proud she is of you and doesn't take credit for her part in it.

She challenges you to be your best, but doesn't take over your life.

She points out your good qualities when you find none.

She says no when it's hard and yes when it's even harder.

But most of all, a mother loves you unconditionally.

Goodbye Ernie Harwell

Here's a re-post of the blog I wrote in September, 2009. It is fitting as Ernie passed away last night.


“Eat ’em up Tigers, eat ’em up!” The African American man is an icon to the Detroit Tigers’ fans. He serenades my son and me as we hurry to Comerica Park to watch our beloved team play another game in their quest for the Pennant. He appears to be in his late fifties or early sixties with hair slightly graying and a wrinkled but always smiling face. He lacks the faraway gaze of a drug addict or the swagger of a drunk. He appears to be homeless, but his clothes do not draw your attention. You focus on his face and the big plastic blue fist he wears with the old English D. In the fist he holds a plastic disposable cup. He shakes the cup up and down and the coins inside provide the rhythm for his song, “Eat ’em up Tigers, eat ’em up.” As far as we know he has made up the ditty but it’s rather catchy. We are in a hurry on the way into the game, so I mention to my son that I will give the man some change on our way out. We know he will be there. He always is. My 10-year old son Matt calls him the “Eat ’em up Tigers guy.”

We get to the game just in time to watch the B-17 aircraft fly overhead. Then the game starts. Ernie Harwell is there to give his farewell speech. Just last week, Ernie was diagnosed with terminal cancer. He is 91. They say the cancer is inoperable and he has chosen not to receive treatment. Ernie is another icon in Tiger’s history. A broadcaster for the Tigers longer than I’ve been on this earth, he is known in Detroit as the Voice of the Tigers. He comes out, and in typical Ernie fashion quiets the crowd by holding his hands up. His humility is evident as he thanks the Tiger’s organization and the crowd over and over again. He makes no mention of his career or what he has accomplished, not even a hint. All he wants to do is thank us. Wait a minute; don’t we owe the thanks to you Ernie? For years of displaying integrity, honesty, loyalty, love, dedication, and good humor. Ernie taught us how to laugh even when times are tough. He showed us how to hang in there and how to always support our team. The fans in Detroit do not boo their own players. We respect our team and we owe Ernie for this attitude.

The Tigers are losing for most of the game, but make a come-back in the late innings to take the lead. It’s getting late and it’s a school night so Matt and I head out. Even though the game is not over, Eat ’em up Tigers guy is there, just as we knew he would be. I observe a fan conversing happily with him. Perhaps the fan is telling him how it pleases him to see him there every game and how he respects him for his quiet way of entertaining the crowd but never begging for applause. Kind of like Ernie. I get out some coins and my son does the same. Matt asks me to put his change in. I drop all the money in the cup.

Eat ’em up Tigers guy looks me in the eyes and says, “Thank you.”

I want to say, “No thank you,” but I don’t. Next time I will say it because you never know when the last time might be that you see someone.

As we say goodbye to Ernie, let us look around at the examples of humility and love right in our midst. I suggest we use that respect Ernie taught us and show it to all those we meet today. Let us not judge, scold, or criticize anyone. Instead, let’s appreciate all of our God-given talents and use them to spread a little joy, like Ernie did.

A Quote to Share

The future you shall know when it has come; before then, forget it.
-- Aeschylus

Count One for the Good Guys

I usually don't blog on sports, but can't resist this one. The Ottawa Senators were facing elimination from the Stanley Cup Finals last night. They came back in Triple Overtime to beat the highly--and I mean HIGHLY--overrated Pittsburgh Penguins and Sidney Crosby. Sad to say I wasn't able to stay up until the wee hours to catch this one, but am happy to imagine the stunned silence in the Penguins arena. Hmmm, looks like someone other than Crosby is capable of heroics after all. Go figure!

Spring Evening

The smell of rain drifts in through the open door, carrying the promise of summer flowers. The air is cooler and fresh. The rain is coming to make all things new again. The tulips and tree blossoms bounce in the wind, playing along with the gentle weather change. The sunny balmy day is replaced by a cool evening.

Nature cooperates so easily with God's plan, can we go with the flow, too?

Tulips

Tulips purple, yellow, red
Standing in my flower bed
Beckon birds to come and sing
Of color, life and joy of spring!

Making It Happen

To be successful at anything, consistency is the key. I can't show up at Church once a year and expect to live a Christian life. I can't write once a week and expect to be a writer. I can't go to a 12th Step Meeting "when I can" and expect to recover. I can't exercise only when the sun shines if I want to be in shape. I have to make regular efforts at the things that lead to my growth for improvement to take place. This means commitment and routine. Once I develop a routine, these things soon become a habit.



How do I know? Because this is how I've experienced change in my own life.

Kipper's Kanine Kraziness

It's been a while since I blogged about my Brittany, but he's been rather inspiring now that the weather is nicer...

My neighbor put up a white privacy fence this past fall and Kipper discovered a new past time: trying to dig a hole under the fence. Yesterday we found a hole about a foot in circumference and depth.

So we put a board over the hole. Today, Kipper found yet another past time for when he is outdoors: knocking over the garage trash can and eating popsicle wrappers. His breath is rather sweat smelling, but I think his plastic binging brought on the vomit he produced on the living room bay window while my husband was busy picking up his doggie doo doo in the backyard. And here I thought it was the lettuce Kipper ate yesterday...

But his vegetable addiction will have to wait for a future blog. In the meantime, pray for me. It is only through God's grace that the dog is still alive and loved.

Happy Easter

Today we celebrate the new birth we have all been promised by Christ's death and resurrection. God so loved the world that he gave his only son, not just to be with us but to suffer and die for us. There is no better reason to celebrate!

Alleluia! He is risen!

The Abortion Scam

It promises you freedom, but binds you
Your soul aborted for convenience.
A life you will never know,
A grace you did not accept,
A promise broken,
An act you cannot undo,
Your selfishness imprisons you;
Only you hold the key--
Seek forgiveness in your God;
Confess your wrong and tell others.

Mom's Birthday

Cups of tea now cold
Laughter faded in the walls
No more time to talk.

The Blind Side Review

Wondering what movie to rent this weekend: I recommend the Blind Side for everyone!

Most people who know me are aware that I am not a big football fan which is why they might be surprised to find out that The Blind Side—a movie about an African-American football player—is one of my favorite movies in the last several years. First of all, this is not a film about football. I was concerned when the opening scene was a breakdown of a football play that I didn’t understand, but the southern female accent of the narrator caught my attention. For the next 100 minutes, I was riveted by a true story of loyalty, family values, love, perseverance and humanity. In a world of plastic supermodels and violence being served up on a platter by every other new release, along came a movie with depth and reality—not the “reality” of shows like Survivor that question our intelligence as viewers. I’m talking about real characters with feelings, dilemmas and most of all an overriding moral compass. The film is never preachy, but through its real life characters—humans with quirks and faults—it shows us how anyone can make the difficult decision to do the right thing.

Michael—a huge African-American whose moniker is Big Mike to those on the street—is enrolled in an all-white Christian high school by a friend who wants to give him a chance. The courage to walk into the classroom reveals Mike’s courage and his perseverance. Withdrawn, barely talking or interacting, he still shows up.

Contrasted to this poor black youth is the white, well-to-do, suburban family of four. The mother, Leigh Anne, works outside the home and her husband owns several fast-food restaurant chains. Leigh Anne appears slightly shallow at first, but then we see her love for her youngest child as they leave from the Thanksgiving play and talk with him about his acting abilities, joking gently about his Native American headdress. Here is a family comfortable with each other, flaws and all. They stick together. Thus when Leigh Anne sees Michael walking in the rain in November in short sleeves and shorts, she tells her husband to pull over. We watch her question her decision to let the youth—who is virtually a complete stranger—sleep on their couch. But soon, she starts seeing how much Michael has to teach her.

The next day is Thanksgiving and we are amused as Michael takes his food to the dining room table to eat while the family grabs a plate of turkey and heads for the TV. Leigh Anne decides he has the right idea and gathers the family to the table. Then she says Grace, thanking God for all the blessings they have. We see true gratitude in the eyes of Michael. Leigh Anne doesn’t quite understand the extent of his poverty. In a later scene, when he reveals that he has never had his own bed, she is touched deeply and quickly leaves the room so that he doesn’t see her tears.

Throughout the film, Leigh Anne wears a diamond cross pendant. No matter what other jewelry or what she is wearing (which is usually quite classy and expensive), the cross is always visible on her neck. While not gaudy, we are drawn to the cross. The cross is made of diamonds to symbolize the fact that Christ’s Cross can never be destroyed. Without telling us this, we know that it is the cross that ultimately motivates her to give up her friends who don’t approve of her choices and to embrace Michael—whom her family needs as much as he needs them.

We see that Leigh Anne is a good mother, reading to her children, attending their school and sporting events and applauding their accomplishments. We do not judge her for getting dinner from Taco Bell anymore than we judge Michael for being born to a crack-addict. She is a high-strung, high-energy woman who learns to slow down a little and become more humble and accepting, following Michael’s lead. We witness her metamorphosis to a more gentle, loving and caring individual. It is easy for her to be generous with money, which is in abundance in her life, but we watch as she learns to become generous with her spirit.

A wonderful example of a marriage based on love and understanding is presented in the film. We see that marriage can be a struggle, but we see how communication, acceptance and a sense of humor infuse their union with the support they need to make moral decisions. We see them having fun together and standing by each other, even through disagreements.

Leigh Anne’s inclusion of Michael in the Christmas family photo brings tears to our eyes and shows what true family means. Likewise, Michael demonstrates protectiveness and loyalty to his family when he physically protects his new brother from getting injured in a car accident. He becomes a great football player because he is able to translate that protective loyalty to his team.

Michael reveals how he used denial to cope with his birth mother’s addiction—he would literally close his eyes. He still has flashbacks and is affected by his childhood. We understand that, but we also see that survival and success on all levels is attainable, regardless of the past.

Michael’s tutor tells him he must trust her if he wants to get good grades. He is able to do this and follows his tutor’s instructions with ease. But his trust in Leigh Anne is tested. We can imagine how many times he trusted his birth mother to be only disappointed again. He is challenged to trust that his new mom is not just providing for him so he will play football for her alma mater. She confronts him and he makes the decision to trust her. In this moment, we see that he has also decided to trust himself. He has shown loyalty to his birth mother, trying to find her. But now he has been shown loyalty by his new mother. It is this loyalty that he will return to his family.

The Blind Side celebrates the triumph of the human spirit over the disease of the world—addition, greed and violence. The movie is a celebration of the human spirit and exemplifies how living Christ’s example of serving others can change the world.

Just Be

Why are we so addicted to doing? As women, we like to add to our to-do list. It's as if we are all wearing a plain crown, and the things we do add jewels to that crown.

I have to remind myself daily, that I am the jewel. God made me in his image. He knows every hair on my head, the gray ones and the dyed ones! He loves me first and foremost. It is important to do good works and to fulfill my responsibilities as a wife and mother, but I also need to take time to just be!

I don't have to keep trying to find more and more to fill up the calendar. I need to fill up my tank--which means I need exercise, proper nutrition, rest, relaxation and fun!

It's not just about what the kids want to do. I love playing hockey, basketball and baseball with my kids. I do it because it's fun, not because I think I should do it. But I also like to go for bike rides and garden. These are activities that I do for me.

Then, I also take time to relax with a good book or a warm bath. I don't have to read the latest parenting article, but I can read something funny or different. I am learning to be a full person. I will never fit society's mold, because it doesn't fit me! The more I accept that and accept myself, the happier I become.

If I listen, God will show me where and how I need to do, but sometimes, I just need to be.

Have a great day--no matter what you do or don't do today!

Walking for Health

I've been walking 20-30 minutes 4-6 times per week, even throughout the winter. As long as the snow wasn't deep, I was able to get out and walk, even if it meant carefully walking in the street. On the snowy days, I was able to shovel for exercise. This has made a great difference in my moods this winter. Bundle up and walk...it's amazing how it clears the mind and soothes the soul.

Exercise--for Fun

Exercise has to be fun for me to be interested. Last year, I found water aerobics. I always considered this to be a class for seniors that was too easy for me. I was wrong. Water aerobics is very challenging and enjoyable, with the right instructor. Basically, you are doing aerobics in the water, but it is low impact on your joints because of the water and at the same time it is twice as much impact for your muscles. Our instructor uses different music and routines every week. If you live in downriver Michigan, check it out: the classes are held at Southgate Anderson High School and in Riverview. Lisa Henri is the instructor's name.

Food Pyramid

Many people have asked me how I've trimmed down over the past year. Well, I've followed the long-proven method of food intake control and daily exercise. I track my food using the FDA-approved food pyramid. This is an online service. It's free and they don't sell your name or send you spam. You fill out a simple profile and it calculates your recommended daily intake of calories as well as quotas for each food group.

It helps me stay accountable to what I'm putting in my mouth and means that I can still eat everything, but now I track it. Over time, it's led me to eat healthier and to be more creative about food. I'm actually enjoying what I eat a lot more. It has left me feeling freer because I no longer have to debate every piece of food in my head. I can log it in before I eat it and see if it's worth it.

Check it out:
http://www.mypyramidtracker.gov/planner/index.aspx

I'll talk about my exercise regime in a coming post.

I am giving up people-pleasing for Lent. God has given me plenty of opportunities to observe this behavior since Ash Wednesday. Now I'm working on changing the behavior. One thing I've decided is that if I want to say something only to please someone else, I need to say the opposite, which is what I really need to say. I've put a stop valve on my true thoughts, which originate from God, for too long. I've asked God to remove the people-pleasing, that means I have to do the footwork. Darn!

Giving up meat on Fridays means I'm obsessed with hamburgers, chicken, and lunch meat until I can eat them on Saturday. And I'm not even a big meat eater! But I just wolfed down several pieces of ham and salami (thank God they were sliced thin).

OK, I also gave up potato chips. Since then, I've been having dreams about the crisp, oily, salty delicacies that satisfy my snacking craving.

My Lenten goal to increase prayer, including family prayer time, has been very satisfying. This fills up where the sacrifices left off.

Take my survey or drop me a comment about what you are doing for Lent. Is it helping you grow closer to God?

Michigan Catholic Article

Here's a link to my article in the Michigan Catholic.

Click Here

Snow Warrior

Shoveling, scraping, sweeping, chipping
Plumes of smoke issue from his mouth
His small frame, bent over, lifting and dumping the snow
Knit hat and woolen gloves and black rubber boots
His gray hair peaks out and his glasses fog
Wrinkles now stiff with cold
He digs and moves and tosses it in the street
A valiant warrior wins the battle
Victorious, he puts away his shovel and heads to the door
He removes his gloves and takes off his boots
He looks out the window as he unzips his coat
Large white flakes descend before his eyes
The war isn’t over yet he mutters
Redresses and heads to battle again.

Who's Perfect?

I have to accept my imperfection as a gift from God--it provides opportunity to learn, grow and mature.

Mistakes are a sign that I'm trying.

Error keeps me humble.

Confusion reminds me that only God has all the answers.

Dollar Store

Another one of my flash fiction stories has been published online!

Check out "Dollar Store" at http://www.ladybugflights.com/featured.htm#FEATUREFICT

Stuff

Having less stuff doesn't make me less than; rather, it gives me more freedom, more space, more time and makes life less complicated and more meaningful.

The pursuit of things doesn't enrich me. The pursuit of developing myself to be the best person inwardly--more like Jesus--is what enriches me.

Out with the Old

I don't have the old outfits to wear anymore. I've changed and have new clothes to put on. There's no going back.

Clothing to me is like attitudes. We choose what to wear everyday. Once I've cleaned out the closets and donated or thrown away the clothes that are ruined, too big, too small or that I simply don't want anymore, I can't wear them again. What of attitudes? I can banish the attitudes of self-doubt, criticism, pessimism, cruelty, sarcasm and ridicule. They don't fit me anymore, so why hold on to them? Are they like the old pair of jeans that I'll never wear again because even if they do fit again one day, they'll be out of style. Why not discard the attitudes now like the sweater that itches me? Then I don't have to wonder why I'm so uncomfortable when I put them on again.

A new wardrobe of faith, hope, love, charity, optimism, energy, tolerance, humor, kindness, patience and forgiveness is much more flattering and comfortable. If I accessorize with a smile, I'm sure to make the best fashion statement yet!

January Morning

A strange cloud hangs over me this morning. I feel gray like the skies outside on this gray January day. Piles of dirty snow. Wet pavement. The quiet of a cold, damp morning in Michigan.

I long for the sun and the sound of birds. I miss the flowers blooming and green grass. I wish to look upon blue skies.

A few lingering Christmas decorations at the house across the street mock me. Christmas is over. No more bright lights to shine against the gray.

But what of my light within? Shall I hold it captive? Why not smile and rejoice in the gifts of today? A warm cat on my lap. The comfort of a cup of coffee. Anticipation of seeing friends and family. A loving husband and kids who fill my happy home. A faithful God who stands by me, even in my grumpy moods.

Dark clouds of thought be gone! Now, I hear a bird chirp. I smile to myself.

Special Invitation

I invite you to read my book of winter poems at

Bible Quote

James Chapter 3, Verse 12

"God is the only lawgiver and judge. He alone can save and destroy. Who do you think you are, to judge your fellow man?"

A thought

How confused we become when we only judge our actions by other people's reactions.

We give them the power to judge us and we internalize that judgment.

We say things like, "I can never win. Everything I do is wrong."

We lump together times we are truly at fault with times others have disapproved of our actions because we have made them uncomfortable.