Canyons & Fireworks

     A theme of correction, this year, is to bridle my tongue. I can be opinionated, loud, and just plain talkative. Sometimes I wonder if I overwhelm some of my reserved or introverted friends. My aim is never to dominate but rather to freely be myself. Living freely without judging myself has taken some time and effort to cultivate, so the subject of being "slow to speak" has not been at the forefront until now.     Since being highlighted I have had some successes and I have had some setbacks. It all started with a word from God to, "Be of no opinion until you have heard from Me." Of course, He did not mean to suggest that I or anyone else should need direction on purchasing an apple verses an orange at the grocery store but mainly in regard to the matters of true importance and of the heart.     After a while, I started to notice an atmosphere of humility. Years ago, I was often credited for a level of humility when I kept to myself and spoke very little.  I

Redemption is such a hopeful concept. To maintain the full power of redemption we need transformation. Aw transformation the chance to change for the better! I don't know about you, but I like the possibility of positive change. I want to be more full of faith, hope, and love in all circumstances and for every person.  Today, my hardworking, talented, precious sister was told her teaching job will be cut to part-time next school year. To make matters worse she is three months pregnant. Horrible timing! As she explained through tears and voiced her concerns my heart ached for her heart. Surprisingly, I was oddly hopeful. I believe this change, while unwelcomed, will facilitate constructive adjustments. She will surly transition to a more fulfilling position and be closer to home. Most of all, in a year this seemingly bad news will be looked upon as the day that led to a happier ever after.   This may sound like naive positivity but my thoughts come from experience. Looking back at m

      A lonely ivy is the sole survivor of a slew of house plants. My love of flowers did not bestow a green thumb; just as my love of song did not award me a voice. Yet, spring has bloomed early, and I wanted to participate. I decided a bouquet would be a nice start versus the commitment of another doomed potted plant. Normally I opt for a bright mixture of vibrant lilies, carnations, and delphinium. This time I was drawn to the simplicity of baby's breath and eucalyptus; although these two are often used as fillers they possess a simple elegance on their own.         Recently, I was tasked with explaining the concept of identity to children. I was reminded that i dentity can easily be confused with personality, achievement, status, or the like. True identity is our  most  basic self. The example I mustered was to think of a newborn baby. The baby has not done or said anything yet is greatly loved, celebrated, and cared for by loved ones. How much more our Heavenly Father loves, c

     I am trying a new pot roast recipe with a surprising ingredient: dill pickle juice. Garlic is one of the not so surprising elements. Aw garlic...extra garlic, onion, and herbs have always found their way into dishes I have prepared. Recently I upgraded from minced garlic to fresh garlic that I roast myself. Yum!     Today, I am especially grateful for my friend of busy days, the crock pot. A long list of demands and errands will fill my day but I still would like a nice dinner, and pot roast is one of my favorites that does not require constant attention.  All I had to do was get everything in the pot so it could cook low and slow.  Once all the tasks of the day are done, the aromas will welcome us to enjoy a juicy and tender roast with veggies.  Double Yum!!     Peeling the garlic cloves out of the bulb proved tedious and I was starting to go through the ever-present "list of things to do" in my head. Suddenly, I remembered just how much I enjoyed learning about gar

     Crystal clear turquoise waves splashed against the sale boat in my Greek Isles like scenery. The air was fresh and salty, warm and breezy.  The summery sun was pleasant without being oppressive. Contented by my surroundings, I noticed a grandfather-like figure to my left as a younger man descended down the steps from a higher level of the sailboat.  The younger man was the father of the baby that I suddenly noticed on deck. The father tended to the baby and invited me to adore his infant, before returning upstairs.      I was absorbed by the environment but also interested in the baby whom I tried to share some honey with, but it did not go well. The stickiness of the baby's face could not divert from paradise. Just then the father returned but the baby was gone! The old man frantically began to search the waters around the boat, he was clearly in despair of a happy ending.  He looked upon me with grave disappointment.  Somehow distracted by all of the beauty, I failed to keep