Welcome Spring

Spring has come when:
woodchucks
pop up
from their burrows
to see their shadows.

Spring has come when:
robins
sing
a happy song
all day long.

Spring has come when:
skunks
dump
the junk
in their trunks.

Spring has come when:
the air smells fresh
and flowers dress
after spring showers
everything covers.

Spring has come when:
red-winged black birds
are daily heard
announcing springs' return
early every morn.

Spring has come when:
temperatures warm
as the daily sun
rises earlier
and sets later.

Spring has come when:
gardeners cheer
and garden are cleared.
It's a date,
they're not late.

Spring has come when:
the sun rises
and surprises
await to be found
as miracles abound.

* * * * *

It's spring
when everything
is new again!

Something else is new every day and not just in passing.
It's God's great love, His mercy, for us - His compassion -
daily, each and every day the whole day long, it's lasting.

Yes, the Lord is faithful
even when we're unfaithful.
God forgives when in prayer we call.

Something new will surely spring
when to the Lord you bring
your afflictions and wanderings.

So pray, hope, seek and wait
and you'll find God is great
and He will never be late.

Wait for the Lord to deliver you
from whatever you're going through.
He will remain faithful to you.

You can start new again.
Your heart will again sing
joyful songs of thanksgiving.

I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall.
I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me.
Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope.
Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him."
The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him;
it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.
Lamentations 3:19-26

Babies

As so many southern friends are expecting babies already this season...

Off to water the new climbing rose,
someday up the arbor it will grow.
What's that I hear?  Sounds like it's scolding me.
It's a robin in the crab apple tree.

I see the twig nest there in the arbor high.
To see it you have to look up to the sky.
Mr. and Mrs. Robin were crafty builders.
Their round nest is neat and tidy with mud shoulders.

The mud is packed tightly inside the nest,
a comfortable place for blue eggs to rest.
I don't know how many eggs there will be.
I'll just have to patiently wait to see.

One day the little blue eggs will hatch
and babies will be born without thatch.
Ugly, hairless, with big beaks
waiting for something to eat.

Their parents will supply worms aplenty
and soon feathers will sprout.  There'll be many.
They will turn from ugly to cute
and learn to sing just like a flute.

One day loud squawking will be heard.
It's coming from the parent bird.
Encouraging their young ones to fly
from their safe loft up high in the sky.

All children are meant to spread their wings
while in the background parents do sing
encouragement often to them
and pray "God protect them, Amen".

Squawking might not be heard as encouragement.
It might be interpreted as disagreement.
Parents only mean to keep their children safe,
while trusting in the Lord and growing strong faith.

Rather squawking from birds or testing from your teens,
there's a lesson in this story to glean.
Be sure to say "I love you" and "be safe".
They might leave the house with a smile on their face.

* * * * *

The Bible tell us that God knows
the activity of sparrows.
If God is concerned about little brown sparrows,
He certainly is concerned about your sorrows.

So many problems are solved by just simply waiting,
even though we want a solution without waiting.
In the meantime, pray for everyone's peace of heart and mind.
God does have an answer which is loving and kind.

When you're waiting for the situation to turn out different,
please know, though it sometimes seems so, God is never, ever silent.
He's working out the details through others.
Just keep praying, God is never bothered.

Pray "Thy will be done".
Cast your burdens - gone.
Trust in the Lord while you wait.
You'll learn that God is never late.

Not one sparrow is forgotten by God.
Luke 12:6

Philippians 4:6-7

Sunshine Yellow

A test of patience each spring is yearly instilled
as we waited 11 months to see the daffodils -
there's bright yellow ones with trumpet frills
or maybe all white ones will thrill.

Though these yellow blooms last for up to three weeks,
their green leaves from the flower bed will peek
for several more weeks,
looking messy - not neat.

How soon these bright sunshine yellow daffodils are over and gone
but do not fear, yellow dandelions are soon coming on...
and on...
and on.

Dandelions test our patience -
seemingly beyond our endurance.
Many neighbors yearly apply 'weed and feed'
as dandelions are filled with endless greed.

You'll find my yard filled with an abundance
which remind me of God's faithfulness
for that's what dandelion happens to mean -
these sunny blooms among jagged leaves of green.

For many weeks on end, over and over again,
you'll find me (impatiently) digging out dandelions
as last year's dandelions went to seed
growing thousands of dandelions to weed.

I'm reminded of God's patience
and everlasting faithfulness
daily toward me as I weed -
a needed reminder, indeed.

In the meantime, yellow forsythia bursts into bloom,
though if you're impatient you can force their yellow blooms,
by cutting a few canes to bring inside.
Just a week it takes for flowers to betide.

Forsythia, another springtime bloom,
that we patiently await to bloom
bursts into color, a bright sunshine yellow,
reinforcing spring is here - hello!

Let's not forget the sunshine yellow sun
that each spring brightens and warms
the barren, colorless earth
causing new life to spring forth.

Bright sunshine yellow,
such a cheerful color.
Much happiness it brings,
painting the earth each spring.


* * * * *

Patience is a hard lesson to learn,
though often needed at every turn,
for everyday something unforeseen goes awry
causing unwanted suffering, why oh why?

Yet God's Word says those who persevere are blessed.
Something to contemplate during the next test -
and you can be sure one will come,
though hardly ever welcomed.

Instead of worrying,
simply start praising.
The peace of God will again calm your spirit,
then perhaps you'll see God's solution in it.

And you'll find an attitude
of unceasing gratitude
will peacefully surround
through life's many ups and downs.

Asking for God's hedge of protection
will allay many daily problems
showering us with blessings instead.
Just pray this simple prayed before bed.

Focusing on the positive
instead of the negative
will change your perspective.
A blessed way to live.

Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering,
take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered.
You have heard of Job's perseverance
and have seen what the Lord finally brought about.
The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
James 5:10-11

Have you not put a hedge around him
and his household and everything he has?
You have blessed the work of his hands...
Job 1:10

Seasons

It's winter
and burr
but gardeners
are not deterred
for in their dreams
they often dream
of gardening under the sunbeams
after the rain leaves the earth fresh and clean.

It's spring
which brings
gardeners out doors
to joyfully explore
the flower bulbs giving birth
from the newly-awakened earth
and they look to see
the fat buds on trees.

It's summer
and gardeners
are busy everyday
weeding under the suns rays
or gathering the garden's bounty.
Each year God provides with plenty.
So much to be thankful for.
God's blessings everyday pour.

It's autumn
when the sun
sets earlier each day
painting sky blue pink rays,
when gardeners harvest -
for there's no time to rest -
the fruits of their labor
over which they labored.

Come winter, spring, summer, or fall,
you'll find gardeners are joyful
and thankful too
for God's kindness through
another filled-with-surprises year
when flowers and vegetables appeared
from the earth
giving birth.

When the earth
does give birth
it's God, the Creator, showing kindness
to each and every one of us
for God planned it that way
when He spoke that day:
"Let the earth
bring forth...".

* * * * *

O the kindness of God!
A thousand times more than we deserve, for God is merciful.
He is patient beyond human understanding.

On the path we trod
we all doubt, we want our own way, are not content, and ungrateful
yet God remains unconditionally loving.

We run around in a fog
without seeking God - until heavy burdens fill our cup full
then we find ourselves seeking God and and praying.

O the goodness of God
that He was waiting all the time, despite our being prideful,
to be our burden bearer for God is caring.

You'll find in your journey through the wilderness
that when times are bad and your life is a mess,
that you will seek the Lord more and more
and you'll find He has good things in store.

It's when times are good that you need to be on the look out
for that's when we neglect to pray as we go about.
We take the kindness of God for granted.
Our relationship with God becomes slanted.

Just as the Israelites were in their journey through the wilderness.
After being obstinate, they would draw near to God and confess.
They learned about God's kindness when seasons were hard.
When seasons were good, their hearts became hard.

Take note of the kindness of God today.
Let it envelop you like a hug and stay.
If you need to confess, don't delay.
God is waiting to hear from you today.

And God said,
Let the earth bring forth grass,
the herb yielding seed,
and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind,
whose seed is in itself, upon the earth;
and it was so.
Genesis 1:11

He (God) has shown kindness by
giving you rain from heaven
and crops in their seasons;
he provides you with plenty of food
and fills your hearts with joy.
Acts 4:17

Do you show contempt
for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience,
not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?
Romans 2:4

Spring Has Sprung

Today, spring has sprung according to the calendar, but not according to the weather report.

Spring has sprung...
on March 20th of each year.
Everyone is heard cheer!

Spring has sprung...
when snow is gone
and temperatures warm.

Spring has sprung...
when winter's past -
finally, at last!

Spring has sprung...
when robins are seen -
a most welcome scene.

Spring has sprung...
when the robins song
is heard loud and strong.

Spring has sprung...
when birds flirt
then go perch.

Spring has sprung...
when fledglings are born
early one morn.

Spring has sprung...
when geese are heard
then seen going northward.

Spring has sprung...
when leaves of green
from bulbs are seen.

Spring has sprung...
when scented flowers
burst into color.

Spring has sprung...
when flowers bloom
and bees seen zoom.

Spring has sprung...
when springs' scents
smell spring fresh.

Spring has sprung...
when spring showers rain
on the window pane.

Spring has sprung...
it's now time for fun.
Gardening has begun.

Spring has sprung...
when you can toil
in the brown soil.

Spring has sprung...
when the earth
brings forth new birth.

Spring has sprung...
when grass is green
and flowers preen.

Spring has sprung...
when there's more sun
than clouds - what fun!

Spring has sprung...
when dreams begin
to grow again.

Spring has sprung!
One feels young!
New life begun!

Spring has sprung!
Everyone's glad
for each spring had.

* * * * *

Spring has sprung...
when your view
becomes new.
Let the Lord show you His view
then live your life anew
for He has a good plan for you.

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you.
Ezekiel 36:26

Thyme after Thyme

Scented thyme:  lemon thyme,
creeping thyme, common (English) thyme,
will attract bees to one's garden
while discouraging insects                                    thyme after thyme.

If you prefer to attract more bees
let thyme produce lavender blossoms wee.
You'll find more bees are beneficial to all
for they will pollinate flowers and vegetables        thyme after thyme.

Thyme is also known to discourage insects
so be sure to plant thyme to ensure these pests
do not visit your garden
then you'll have less to tend                                  thyme after thyme.

Thyme goes well with various dishes -
with poultry and stuffings it often hitches,
along with parsley, sage and rosemary.
Your senses will be heightened and merry            thyme after thyme.

Make a bouquet of thyme,
sage, rosemary, then bind
to use as a scented bouquet
or in your freezer store away                                thyme after thyme.

Thyme tea will quiet a cough
or sooth an upset stomach.
Lemon thyme is best
then take time to rest                                           thyme after thyme.

Dry fragrant thyme
for another time.
It's good to be prepared
for when you need care                                        thyme after thyme.

* * * * *

Perhaps over a shared thyme
today new friendships will twine
for thyme after thyme
new ties will bind.

Friends have much to teach us on our precarious journey through life -
a listening ear, a giving heart, a shoulder to lean on through strife.
Friends often uphold us
when life seems a mes.

They are there when we need them,
we find thyme after thyme,
and the gift is returned
thyme after thyme, we learn.

For thyme after thyme
problems, not kind,
burden our hearts and minds
leaving our face lined
with worry, we find,
thyme after thyme.

But a friend's friendship shines
on our life and mine
leaving worries behind
with laughter that binds,
and a word so kind
thyme after thyme.

...for such a time as this...
Esther 4:14

A friend loves at all times.
Proverbs 17:17

Of Thorns and Roses

Every rose bears a thorn
for thorns roses adorn.
Just as in life, good times born
are adorned with many storms.
We moan, are worn, and forlorn.
Storms leave us alone and torn.
For good times we do yearn.
A shelter in the storm.
There is a purpose in thorns
for patience and hope is formed.
Hope is a confidence being born.
Out of it blooms roses despite thorns.

Every thorn wears a rose.
That's just the way it grows.
Just as in life, every sorrow
can bear a joyful tomorrow.
So next time life sows woes
and you're feeling quite low
remember the rose -
with thorns it does grow.
Your lows and woes
will someday sow
a lovely rose.
Beauty grows.

Half of the beauty from life's roses
comes from thorns we've endured along the road
for thorns are what shape us into who we are.
In the end, we're much better for it by far.

Instead of concentrating on the thorn,
look beyond it to the rose being born
for from thorns beauty is formed.
We are being transformed.

Being transformed through difficulties.
That's what thorns are meant to do, you see.
Being made into a rose
where beauty is seen and glows.

It's only norm
that every thorn
will one day grow
a lovely rose.
Growing beauty
is its duty.
Just as our trials teach us
patience and to learn to trust -
growing our inner beauty,
so we will turn out lovely.
A rose arose
from lows and woes.

* * * * *

Right now, today, are you going through a storm?
Does it feel like a festering thorn?
Concentrate on the word 'through'
as your storm will come to pass, too.

Though you may temporarily mourn,
in the end, beauty is being born
as patience
or kindness.

One day we'll see that Sovereign God
worked all things together for good.
His holy purposes
were worked out through us.

When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze...
since you are precious and honored in my sight,
and because I love you.
Isaiah 43:2,4

The fruit of the Spirit is
love, joy, peace, patience,
kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness and self-control.
Galatians 5:22

God intended it for good
to accomplish what is now being done.
Genesis 50:20

And we know that in all things
God works for the good
of those who love him,
who have been called
according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28

Dormant

Seemingly dormant in the ground,
in the spring flowers are found:
snowdrops, crocus,
daffodils, tulips.

Eleven long months they waited,
quietly preparing while bated,
then pushing their way up through the sod -
a rainbow of colorful spring bulbs nod.

Dormant, no longer, they arrive
announcing they are alive.
Everyone's happy spring is no longer dormant
as each new season is welcomed with much excitement.

Then perennials push their way
up through the sod and thankfully stay
the whole summer producing a bright array
of blooms that make a beautiful outdoor bouquet.

Come fall these same flowers return dormant
to rest throughout winter's internment.
Temporarily buried under the snow,
to return delighting us next year, we know.

Weed seeds dormant in the soil
will one day make for toil
for when the rains come
weeds are sure to come.

Not seen
until green
when unwelcome weed seeds
sprout everywhere indeed.

Dandelions,
thistles, plantain,
lamb's quarters, summer bamboo, red root,
chicory, velvet leaf will shoot.

On and on
without end
from springs' beginning
until summer's end.

And for many years to come thereafter
these weed seeds, once dormant, grow then prosper
despite regular mulching
around flowers growing.

In the winter dormant;
in the summer present:
ants, flies, worms, beetles, slugs,
mosquitoes, insects, grubs.

Gardeners combat
with sprays and/or bats.
Some even buy blue lights
that zap when bugs alight.

Dormant they hibernate,
then foliage they ate
or humans they bite
then humans strike.

If humans strike
mosquitoes that bite,
dormant they'll be
for eternity.

* * * * *

Our spiritual lives should never grow dormant.
We should pursue, for that is what is meant,
relationship with the Lord each day
for the Lord desires to guide you always.
You'll find relationship
is a close friendship.

Relationship through prayer
when you share with God your cares.
Then be sure to share
your answered prayers
for others need encouragement
to keep them from growing dormant.

Relationship through scripture
for scripture teaches, for sure.
It leads by example with stories
of characters with the same worries.
There are verses that will build up
when you feel like giving up.

A well-worn Bible shows
that that is where one goes
when heavy burdens and woes
leaves one feeling low from blows.
One finds one's faith will always grow
from a favorite verse they know.

And God's Word is full of guidance to help us steer clear
of choices or decisions that could possibly smear.
It is a daily road map to lead us
as well as a survival guide for us.
You'll find joy when you follow its directives
for the Bible teaches us the right way to live.

Relationship built through doing good
for a caring mind and sharing hands should
be used to imitate Christ-likeness
as part of our daily quest.
Christ-likeness will display our relationship
with God as we make new God-given friendships.

The Lord will guide you always;
he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land
and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
like a spring whose waters never fail.
Isaiah 58:11

For everything that was written in the past
was written to teach us,
so that through endurance
and the encouragement of the Scriptures
we might have hope.
Romans 15:4

All Scripture is God-breathed
and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting
and training in righteousness,
so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped
for every good work.
II Timothy 3:16

Be imitators of God, as dearly loved children
and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us
and gave himself up for us
as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Ephesians 5:1-2

Telling Tales

Last night a shimmering blanket of snow
silently fell in the garden and meadow.
Covering everything in its path down low
and what's up high is veiled by new fallen snow.

This morning white, glistening snow
is heaped on the evergreen boughs.
From the leafless trees, shadows
stretch out into a tangled row.

Though silent the snow came, this morning a tale follows
for night visitors ventured out from their hollow.
Crossing the road, they know
where tasty edibles grow.

Despite my dog named Goldie, who's yellow,
uninvited critters leave a trail to follow.
Not afraid, they came in the night's shadows,
telling tales where their footprints burrowed.

There are rabbit tracks to follow,
hopping then stopping in the shadows.
I did not see hide nor tail, though,
footprints tell tales down low.

There are trails abounding from bucks and does.
Over the fence they jumped for a thorough
investigation in my garden - to my woe.
If only I had a bow and arrow.

It's way too cold, though,
because it's near zero
to check out any damage these foes
have contributed, to my sorrow.

Though silent they came, the fluffy snow
tells tales of where these bucks and does,
rather rabbits or deer, all foes,
have eaten their midnight chow.

What I do find to be cute are the birds nests stowed
in the leafless trees now piled high with snow.
These nests, wearing a white cap, seem to glow
with promises of a spring in the morrow.

Then when the sun comes out to shine, the snow glows
and sparkles, like glitter, in my hollow
reminding me of an angel wearing a halo
spreading joy and gladness this cold day - banishing sorrows.

* * * * *

We all live with various types of foes.
Some live with constant grief and sorrow,
maybe health or financial woes,
or perhaps in depression wallow.

Sometimes it seems to our sorrow
only gloom waits each tomorrow.
That's not God's plan for us, though.
God wants us to live life aglow.

An attitude of 'woe is me' adds sorrow.
Much unhappiness will surely follow.
An attitude of gratitude, though,
will banish many daily sorrows.

Gladness will replace sadness, we know,
when we come out from the shadows,
for in the shadows we go to wallow
about our personal woes and sorrows.

The abundance of our heart flows
out wherever we happen to go.
Of worry, do not borrow.
Of gladness, be sure to follow.

You'll be much better for it, you know,
when gladness replaces sorrow.
You'll look forward to tomorrow,
if you search for joy and follow.

The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart.
For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
Luke 6:45

Above all else, guard your heart,
for it is the wellspring of life.
Proverbs 4:23

Keeping Young

Not only is gardening fun
when outside under the warm sun,
gardening will help keep one young
for every year one looks forward to
springtime and its colorful view.
I do. Do you too find that's true?

The gardener might plant bulbs in the fall
then look forward to spring, for spring is when all
the colors of the rainbow blossom for all
the snowdrops, crocus', daffodils, tulips,
alliums, jonquils, narcissus,
bluebells, grape and fragrant hyacinths,

await to spring forth when finally the spring
rains begin to ping and birds are heard singing
to waken the flower bulbs and bring
much joyous mirth
to all the earth
with each new birth.

Who isn't happy to see the rainbow
of spring bulbs and flowers - one's face glows
and there's a happy song, you know,
in gardener's hearts when they see
spring return in all its glory.
Gardeners showcase a youthful glee.

Yes, looking forward to springtime keeps one young.
Days spent out under the sun having fun
for the gardener's work is never done.
Fun returns everyday with songs to be sung.
Songs of joyful thanksgiving under the sun.
Those with joy in their hearts are forever young.

- - - - -

How to keep young?
One way is fun.
Another is joy -
smile, laugh, enjoy.

Plan something fun for yourself,
even if all by yourself.
Enjoy your time alone
rather away or at home.

Smile for no reason.
You'll feel young and it's fun.
Don't you feel better?
And even healthier.

Have you had your Vitamin L today?
Vitamin L chases the blues away.
Vitamin L is laughter.
It's free to all, remember.

Find someone to laugh with for laughter
eases the pain when you suffer.
Anxiety and pain will abate
when there's daily laughter on your face.

If you spend too much time alone
being with others will help one
forget about their aches and pains.
Friends benefit much - to our gain.

Being worry-free will keep one young
for worry keeps one from having fun.
Fun is depleted and robbed
when worry becomes our job.

Find something you enjoy
then live a life of joy
for joy will abound
when happiness resounds.

* * * * *

There's a deeper joy than doing.
It's a joy found in knowing
the One who created us.
Knowing God is a must.

Quite often life beats us down.
We end up wearing a frown.
Outward joy is gone.
Absent every dawn.

But when you know God,
life isn't as hard
for you believe his promises.
Here's a few of God's promises:

1.  We shouldn't ever fear
for God is always near.
He will never leave you
and will guard you through
whatever your situation
when you give him permission.
Just ask in prayer.
God will be there.

2. We shouldn't be overwhelmed
with whatever comes around
for God is still in control
when life seems out of control.
God is still on the throne
in heaven his home.
He desires to be Lord of your life
to give you peace when life brings about strife.

3. God will give you daily strength
to last each day at length.
We can be strong in the strength of the Lord
when life gives more than we can endure
for God's grace is sufficient,
made perfect in weakness.
Just ask for God's power
right now, this hour.

4. Envision God's arms around you,
embracing you, sustaining you,
helping you, upholding you
whatever you're going through.
Doing what is fair, just and right
for in you God does delight.
Never forget, you are loved
with an everlasting love.

Everlasting joy is found in knowing
the Lord God who gives blessings unending.

The joy of the Lord is your strength.
Nehemiah 8:10

Do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10

I am the Lord, your God,
who takes hold of your right hand
and says to  you, Do not fear;
I will help you.
Isaiah 41:13

...they will enter Zion with singing;
everlasting joy will crown their heads.
Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah 35:10

My grace is sufficient for you,
for my power is made perfect in weakness.
II Corinthians 12:9

Sun

The days first light streams
when the new day's sunbeams
brighten the sky
then morning is nigh.

There's a brightness over the hill
where sunlight awakens and spills
its light and warmth
over the earth.

Quietly rising
with song birds vying
for the first glimpse of light rays
announcing a brand new day.

They you'll hear the day announced
from birds who you'll hear loudly mouth
through chirps and trills
and cheeps and thrills...

that morning has come -
'everyone, come on,
get up, let's have fun
under the sun'.

Morning with all its rush
comes in with a hush
before the birds announce it's a new day -
'come on everyone, get up and play'.

Perhaps you'll get up tomorrow
to view the sunrise that burrows
up over the hill
where sunlight spills.

It's a glorious sight to see
for it's God's awesome might you see
since the beginning of creation
when God spoke the sun into creation.

* * * * *

The Bible says Jesus is our light
"I have come into the world as a light." (John 12:46)
With Jesus for us our future is bright
as He desires to be our delight.

Yes, there will be times when finances are tight.
There will be temptations you'll need to fight.
Life on earth was never promised to be always right.
There will seemingly be many a long, dark night.

But remember you are not alone in this fight.
Jesus has an answer to whatever is not right.
He is teaching us to live by faith, not sight
as we learn to abide in Him, so sit tight.

Jesus is our light.
Everything will turn out right.
Your future is bright.
Look for God's delights.

At the beginning of the day it's His sunlight
reminding us that Jesus is our light.
At the end of the day it's the starlight
reminding us Jesus will keep us through the night.

All through the day look for God's many delights
even during the times you pray will all your might
to overcome the temptations you fight
for those are the times that bring God delight.

It's when we seek God whatever the plight,
when we give Him whatever we fight,
when we go to the source which is our Light,
that our troubles change and turn out alright!

Genesis 1:14-19

II Samuel 23:4

John 12:4

Sky Blue Pink

Sun going down
leaving a pink crown
in the sky behind the hill
where now sky-blue pink spills.

Sky lit up with pink
as the sun sinks
ending another day
with sky-blue pink rays.

Minute by minute
the Creator's palette
colors and paints
sky-blue pink.

Watch now as it dries
high up in the sky;
flushed with pink
sky-blue pink winks.

When you wink
sky-blue pink
is gone -
so long.

Dusk has turned into night
after a brief twilight
when sky-blue pink
briefly winked.

Next time you see sky-blue pink
take a minute to watch it sink
forecasting tomorrow like a mirror
as today's sun slowly disappears.

Sky-blue pink is a  mirror
that tomorrow will be clear.
Blue skies delight
at first light.

* * * * *

Though gone in a wink
the sky in sky-blue pink
casts a rosy glow
wherever it goes.

Like wearing rose-colored glasses
wherever it touches or passes,
sky-blue pink
makes one think.

What if we looked at life through rose-colored glasses?
What if our attitude was one of gratitude vs.
grumbling and fretting,
complaining and stressing.

What if we counted our blessings
instead of daily stressing?
Wouldn't life seem better
and a little sweeter?

Doesn't stressing get you down?
Aren't you seen wearing a frown?
Did it benefit in the end
to daily stress to no end?

Daily put on your rose-colored glasses
and count your blessings as the day passes.
When you have an attitude of gratitude,
you'll find a positive change in your attitude.

When evening comes, you say,
'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,'
and in the morning,
'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red.'
Matthew 16:2-3

Field of Dreams

Swaying in the breeze,
just waiting to tease,
a field of dreams awaits -
pronouncing someone's fate.

Snowy white, always innocent,
without a flowery fragrance;
every summer a field of dreams
decorates hill's and meadow scenes.

According to tradition,
while applying subtraction,
one-by-one each plucked petal
seals the fate of earthy mortals.

Have you ever played this game?
A game of innocence, not vain.
He loves me, he loves me not.
Of course he does, how could he not!

Daisy happens to mean innocence.
This game is played by many a lass
while all over the world innocent lads
don't know if they should be mad or quite glad.

* * * * *

Never doubt that the Lord God loves you
for the Bible tells us through and through.
Not because of what you did or didn't do
but because of who God is, yes, it's true.

Unconditional love
from heaven above
always freely given to His children
though beyond our human comprehension.

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power
through his Spirit in your inner being,
so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.
And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,
may have power together with all the saints,
to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,
and to know this love that surpasses knowledge -
that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Ephesians 3:14-19

Weed Seeds

Blowing in the wind
are unwanted weed seeds.
Not seen in the din
but still there, indeed.

Across property lines
and even state's lines.
Multiplying each year
from the green grass appears.

Not wanted
or needed,
uninvited
where sighted.

Making toil
in the soil
for the gardener -
a nuisance, a bother.

Perhaps the most famous,
though not mysterious,
comes in with the wind
at the end of spring.

Dandelions
are seen lying
in fields and yards.
Making work hard.

Other weeds appear
throughout the year
but none are as yellow
as this handsome fellow.

* * * * *

Our words and actions
are like those weed seeds
blowing in the wind.
A thought to heed -
for words never die,
in thoughts they always lie.

We don't know where our words will end.
Words either chase away or make friends.
Words have the power to heal
but also power to steal
your peace of heart and mind
when not thoughtful or kind.

Words offer encouragement
or can bring disagreement.
Words rather loud or soft,
spoken little or oft,
have cause and effect
and lifetimes affect.

We are known for the words we speak -
loud or soft - each day of the week.
Be known as an encourager when you speak
by letting your words be gentle and sweet.
Others will know when they meet
rather to go or to greet.

Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord,
keep watch over the door of my lips.
Psalm 141:3

If anyone considers himself religious
and does not keep a tight rein on his tongue,
he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.
James 1:26