REFLECTIONS OF GOODNESS–WEEK ONE

Each November, Sarah E. Westfall invites writers to notice and share the goodness they find in the small moments of the day, using the tag, #liturgyofthelittlethings on Instagram. These were my reflections from the week.

November 1st

On this All Saints’ Day
I lovingly recall
those who have gone before
but who always remain
through
love poured
wisdom shared
humility lived
grace extended
and
joy remembered.

November 2nd

Our local grandchildren live in a neighborhood that isn’t conducive for trick-or-treating, so we are fortunate to have another neighborhood near us that is. These generous people make Halloween special with lots of decorations and candy. We are grateful that our grandchildren have a fun place to go–along with about 300 other young people!

Last year, I began the practice of walking the neighborhood on November 1st to pick up any trash left behind. This small gesture is simply one of gratitude in return for their kindness.

But today I’m mindful
of the good people
who clean up messes,
not once a year,
not in return for a kindness,
not with recognition or reward.
The good people
who are not the mess makers,
but the ones who
regularly and humbly
clean up after them.

Thank you.

November 3rd

Normally this feather would have gone unnoticed, but today it has significance…

A few days ago, I read a post from a writer friend, who had found a similar feather on her daily walk. As she journeys through cancer treatments, this simple gift was a precious symbol of goodness and hope, reminding her of Emily Dickinson’s words,
“Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul…”

And so, today this feather immediately brought my friend to mind. I don’t know exactly how God works, but as I whispered a prayer for her, I sensed a holy purpose…

a few words written and received,
two writers walking similar paths,
and this one small feather,
connecting us
across time and distance,
inviting me to pray.

November 5th

There is a nest within my soul
where Love abides to stay.
A shelter from the storms of life,
a place to hide away.

There is a nest within my soul
though weathered now, and worn,
but Love finds this a perfect space
in which to be reborn.

There is a nest within my soul
now open to the sky.
For Love has brought me to this place
where I can freely fly.

November 6th

GOING FIRST

With courage to be colorful
and strength to stand apart,
may I make each day wonder-full;
your joy and peace impart.

Transform me in your love so bright
to shine with vivid hue,
and fill my soul with radiant light–
reflecting only you.

Oh, let me never hesitate
to be the first to start,
if I can help initiate
more love in every heart.

November 7th

This morning’s moment of goodness was a quiet pause underneath the pines.

“In November, the earth is growing quiet. It is making its bed, a winter bed for flowers and small creatures.”
~ Cynthia Rylant

November 8th

OPEN

I wonder what this day will bring;
will something new arrive?
Will my soul soon begin to sing,
or struggle to survive?

Whatever this day holds for me,
my heart’s an open door.
For I hope there will always be
a place for love to pour.