Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the cool, clear day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside very early this morning, I noticed the brilliant crescent moon shining brightly just under Venus, just as brilliant. What a beautiful, breath-taking sight in the eastern sky! God is Awesome!
I had an enjoyable walk yesterday, a little later than usual. There were more people walking, but for the most part, I enjoyed the solitude. I once again heart the mewing chirp of the catbird, and saw the shrubbery move, but did not catch a glimpse of it. They are very elusive!
The young Mama gator was guarding her babes, which were nowhere in sight, but I guess she knew where they were. The water has receded to the point where they will have to craw; through mud to get to their nest.
I spoke with Francia, who was setting up her classroom for the day. Every afternoon, she takes the three little screech owls home, along with the tarantula and other assorted critters, then brings them back the next school day. She loves her work!
From Quiet Moments:
"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Most of us at some time indulge in the endless chase for perfection in our lives: perfect home, perfect job, no conflicts. And most of us discover quickly the futility of such expectations.
Every year Dear Abby prints a familiar story written by Emily Kingsley called, "Welcome to Holland." Emily, a writer, lecturer, and talented mother of an adult child with Down syndrome, knows about expectations. Others have asked her what it's like raising a child with disabilities. In her story, Emily uses a metaphor. She compares the expectation of a child's birth to planning a vacation trip to Italy. She mentions the joy of deciding on tourist spots to visit and the anticipation of all the sights you would see upon your arrival.
She then describes the scenario upon landing in your vacation spot. Surely a mistake has been made, because the stewardess on your plane welcomes you not to Italy, but to Holland. You argue, but nothing changes. You are in Holland, and there you will stay.
Anyone who has ever been to Holland knows that tulips, windmills, and Remrbandts make Holland a beautiful place. Emily points out that it's just not what you expected. You planned on going to Italy.
In her poignant illustration, Kingsley challenges the reader to focus not on unmet expectations (Italy), but on the beauty of where you are (Holland).
When life doesn't turn out perfectly--the way we planned--we have a choice. Whether it's as minor as a holiday gone awry or as major as a prince charming that turned into an ugly frog, God wants us to celebrate that "very special, very lovely thing" about our circumstance.
Nothing with God can be accidental.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
