REFLECTIONS OF GOODNESS–WEEK TWO

(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 9th

READY FOR THE SEASON

Nature seems to be starting early with its Christmas decorating. My longing, ready heart says, “Bring it on!”

I am grateful for the gifts of Christmas that nature brings to mind–the gifts of hope, peace, joy, and love–and to recognize that these gifts of goodness are always with us, for every day, in every season.

November 10th

I had a delightful surprise that is perfect for today’s #liturgyofthelittlethings post! Two marvelously creative artists, my son-in-law, @rial_rye and my Instagram friend, @jefferywilcoxpaclipan are contributors for the Little Things Exhibit @swancoachhousegallery from now until January 4th.

Both of these artists have wonderful works, and their background stories and spirits are inspirational as well. I encourage you to learn more about them on their Instagram profiles!

November 14th

As autumn glory fades and falls
to carpet earthly ground
but winter snows have not yet come
with whiteness all around
then sweet November brings the frost
to trim the leaves below
with dainty decoration
between the blaze and snow.

November 15th

Between the peaks and valleys,
on the hillsides where we spend
so many of our earthly days,
how might we better tend
ourselves, our souls, our spirits
to flourish and to grow?
How do we nurture and maintain
between each high and low?

May we know just where to cling
and let our roots grow deep,
so when the storms of life rain down
this hillside long and steep,
we do not lose our footing
nor let go and wash away
but absorb what is essential
to thrive another day.

November 16th

While walking around our community cemetery, I was drawn to this gravestone. The name, Adkins, is part of my history, my heritage. And even as I don’t know this person, after reading the beautiful words I know we are eternally kindred. We are united through spirit, we are lovers of nature, we are the ones who have found our peace in the sanctuary of the earth’s grandeur.

PEACE OF MIND
Peace of mind is to breathe the air
at the top of a West Virginia mountain,
to watch a red autumn leaf float
lazily down a crystal river;
a campfire on a hill for all for miles to see.
In my mind I think of times left behind,
in the mountains of Appalachia,
where rivers run like liquid crystal
and mountains reach to touch the sky.
To climb a mountain and look off on
all there is to see gives one of the
greatest feelings of all, those of
love, peace and tranquility.
The mountain looks so rough and rugged
like the mighty warriors
guarding sacred valleys of the sun,
but to those who know the mountains
as I do, see them as the mother of us all,
who gives us love, life
and our peace of mind.
~ D.B.A.

(Photos by Karen)