“how sad and bad and mad it was ― but then, how it was sweet”
― Robert Browning.
Yesterday it snowed in Comfort.
Of course it did.
The last day of 2020 and what else would I expect but the unexpected.
How mad.
Not a layer accumulated, but how sweet to warm by the fireplace and watch flickering flames and falling snow.
I opened my laptop and scrolled through a year of photos. As I remembered, the embers mounded. A sad and bad and mad year neared an end.
And yet, like my actual walks in mother nature where her lessons lend perspective, my virtual stroll in her sanctuary sang a song about a year of sweet.
On backgrounds of chaos,
take a closer look,
and mom will share the tiny treasures
and source of strength
when times are fiery
or calm.
Her teachings are many.
The chaos itself is alluring.
Join the bedazzling scene
but focus on the one
and ones who make your life a delight.
In a prickly spot,
hold on to the light.
Land where you can change the scenery and make a difference.
Flourish in the thicket
or softly rise above and scream truth.
At times all is still and the picture ahead is clear
until a happening causes a ripple
and the universe is never the same.
Calm will restore and a new reflection will surface.
With burdens lifted, we heal and soar.
During the hardest trials, gather the nectar
and embrace the blaze in wither,
assured there is beauty
and company in the end.
We honor
and carry on.
As we wind our way
they are with us.
In the greater dance
we each play a part.
With an abundance to feed us
we shine through the swirl.
Each season offers hope.
Every year renews opportunity to carry her inside where she continues to give.
Watch for the heavens to speak.
They will shout when you need advice,
delight in your joy,
blanket your pain,
cheer you on,
take part in your story,
grant perspective,
watch over you,
sing to you goodnight,
shine on your efforts,
and encourage you to celebrate every day.
Life is a mixture.
Sweet is always in the mix.
Family, friends, faith, smiles, hugs, laughter, love and joy are the sweetest ingredients of life.
So, heads out of the bucket.
Say goodbye to 2020.
And look forward.
Through the thicket
walks a new day.
Stake your place in the new year.
Take Comfort.
I was thinking of you this morning and hoping that you would post soon. The post is a lovely remembrance of the fullness of life and that always there is something just over the horizon. Happy 2021.
Happy New Year. Makes me happy you look forward to Take Comfort postings. I’ll reach out soon. Love, Karen
Karen, you are the best. I think God gifted you with the ability to reawaken the deepest part of the souls of all of us. Happy New Year to you, Jim and your family.
Happy New Year, Karen! Your photographs need to be in the next National Geographic magazine! I agree with the above comments.
WOW. You are gifted like our father and blessed with the ability to create the most beautiful words that touch, inspire and cause comfort on ones soul. And the photographs, again, WOW. Love you sister, and so proud of your creation here. Thank you.
Best compliment ever to be like our dad. Love you.
Sweet is always in the mix. Thank you for sharing these awesome depictions of God’s creative goodness.
Thanks sweet friend! Happy New Year.
Karen: your eye for beauty in nature and talent for capturing it photographically is both a gift and a product of focused effort…Your generous sharing is a gift to all of us. Thanks! Happy New Year. Jim III
Thanks and love you grandpa Jim!!
What a wonderful full reminder how awesome and healing nature is…love the photos and words you have put together! Love and hugs to all!
Thanks and hope all is well with your family.
Karen,
I love your photography. Maggie suggested I check it out and I am sure glad she did.
Lots of love Colleen
HELLO!!!!! What a nice surprise. Thanks for the nice words and I hope you will continue to follow. Hope all is well. Love, Karen
What beautiful photos and words! Hope Holly and I will be able to see you soon.
What beautiful photos and words! Holly and I are looking forward to seeing you when we can travel again.
Thanks Linda. I look forward to safe travel days ahead!
Such beautiful, sumptuous photographs! Wishing your family a year free of sorrow and full of health.
Your visual gift coupled with your poetry fils my heart and soul with joy, Thank you for sharing your gift with me. Mom Cody