Don't you just love the smell of fresh-cut grass? It's like the scent-sational signal that summer is suddenly showing. (I know that was a bit of a stretch, right?)
Our entire family breathes deeply when we pass such a lawn. I also love the smell of newly tilled dirt but that's a different blog post.
Here in FL, the mowing began several weeks ago. The lawns all around our little neighborhood are beautifully manicured. Each emerald-colored carpet is thick and grows right to the edge of our road.
Starting late on Friday and all day Saturday you can hear the various models of mowers and edgers working their magic. Most of the men in our community take great pride in making sure their lawn is pristine in presentation. If they can't get to it that week for some reason, they hire the work done.
With all the rain we had from the tropical storm this week, Frank told me he's certain he can hear our grass growing.
We bought this house ten years ago from a bachelor. A fine young man who worked for another church in the area. With great diligence, he took "lawn labor" to an entirely different level.
As a bachelor, he had lots of extra time on his hands. He poured long hours into making the lawn at house 2013 look just like the greens on a professional golf course or the outfield of a baseball stadium.
His grass was uniform in height. The edging was exact. There were no brown spots to be found. He meticulously manicured his yard and it showed.
Then we moved in.
Three daughters, two dogs and a steady stream of visitors. Often those visitors drove separate vehicles to our home. Which led to parking anywhere they could find an open spot. Even if that spot was more grass than concrete.
More cars meant more unsightly patches of grass.
Some of our guests were college students driving older cars with oil leaks. Others weren't aware of what their tires were doing to our lawn. Some simply had no clue.
Brown spots began appearing where the oil had leaked. Our driveway looked like it had developed a case of leprosy. Grass died and had to be replaced regularly.
Finally, Frank gave up the impossible standard set by our predecessor. He came to peace with our less than perfect lawn condition. The anxiety of seeing cars strewn over our yard like a patchwork quilt completely disappeared. In its place came joy!
After that, more cars came to mean more hugs, more laughter and more love being shared by the drivers. And of course, More JOY! So much more joy!
Frank and I stood by our front door a few days ago waving good-bye to the last of our party guests. It had been a small group for our impromptu cook-out; only eleven cars to park. For those few hours, our lawn looked, once again, like a brightly colored quilt.
As they pulled away one by one, we began to see the huge bare spots where an impeccably groomed lawn existed just ten short summers ago. Now, our scraggly excuse for grass barely makes it to the road. (A friend recently told Frank that we have more green weeds than grass.)
For a split second I closed my eyes and envisioned the verdant lawn that had been. But then a final visitor beeped their horn and waved good-bye while calling, "Thanks! We had a great time!"
Huge smiles. Laughter echoing. Rich memories swirling. And JOY so much joy!
I took one more look at our yard and knew, it may not win any awards but I have the most beautiful lawn in the neighborhood.
Thursday, June 9, 2016
Friday, May 20, 2016
Choosing
This will be a super short post for me. Mostly because I only have fifteen minutes to get it written, proofed and on line. Some days have an agenda of their own that totally supersedes the agenda you had prepared. Such is life for us all!
But I remembered a wonderful story that will both encourage and challenge you.
Last week, Abby and I went to lunch all by ourselves. (It was to make up for taking Spencer on his field trip to the aquarium earlier this month. Fairness matters greatly to three year old siblings. Let's face it, fairness matters greatly to children whatever their age!)
She chose to eat at Chick fil a, of course. It's their "fah-vo-wot" place to eat. We sat together on the same side of a booth so we would be looking at the same things and I could more easily help her.
We chatted just loudly enough that the grandmothers at the next table could enjoy Abby, too. She has a thought to share on just about every topic. And since she had Noni's undivided attention, Abby talked! And talked! And talked! And Noni LOVED it!
She played briefly on the indoor playground. Then she wanted us to sit for a while on the bench and just watch the other children. So we sat.
Ice cream seemed like a good idea, so we headed over to Dairy Queen where she chose a cone of her "fah-vo-wot".....mint chocolate chip!
While we were waiting to get our cones, Abby noticed a little boy sitting at a booth with his dad. He looked to be about Abby's age. I thought it a bit odd that his dad was feeding the little boy. But our girls have torn food for their babies to handle on their own from about 12 months of age. That's my frame of reference. Abby and I just smiled at each other.
There was a bench outside the doors of Dairy Queen and she wanted to sit there awhile too. So we sat.
As we sat on the bench, Abby's adorable little feet were swinging and she chatted easily. First about the antique "cahr pahrked ovah thehre." Then about the "birhds" in the "gwass." We exchanged licks of our cones with one another. Deciding we liked our own best.
After a quiet moment, she glanced back in at the little boy and his dad. I followed her gaze and we watched the dad who was still feeding the boy. We turned to face the parking lot once again.
"He's tweating him like a baby!" she announced.
"And he isn't a baby at all, is he?" my comment just confirmed her observation. That's when the wisdom poured out.....
Abby took another lick of her mint chocolate chip and stated, "He's choosing to be!"
I nearly gasped aloud. "Are you three or thirty-three?" was the thought in my head.
"You're right, sweetheart. Some people choose to act like babies even when they aren't. You're a smart little girl to know that."
She looked up at me, flashed her signature grin, and went on enjoying her ice cream.
Noni, however, had been handed something that I'll be chewing on for a long time. Scripture says, "...out of the mouths of babes..." A powerful truth had just come out of the mouth of that baby girl.
I hope you'll take the challenge of Abby's spontaneous sermon point and ponder it too.
Choose well - others are watching!
But I remembered a wonderful story that will both encourage and challenge you.
Last week, Abby and I went to lunch all by ourselves. (It was to make up for taking Spencer on his field trip to the aquarium earlier this month. Fairness matters greatly to three year old siblings. Let's face it, fairness matters greatly to children whatever their age!)
She chose to eat at Chick fil a, of course. It's their "fah-vo-wot" place to eat. We sat together on the same side of a booth so we would be looking at the same things and I could more easily help her.
We chatted just loudly enough that the grandmothers at the next table could enjoy Abby, too. She has a thought to share on just about every topic. And since she had Noni's undivided attention, Abby talked! And talked! And talked! And Noni LOVED it!
She played briefly on the indoor playground. Then she wanted us to sit for a while on the bench and just watch the other children. So we sat.
Ice cream seemed like a good idea, so we headed over to Dairy Queen where she chose a cone of her "fah-vo-wot".....mint chocolate chip!
While we were waiting to get our cones, Abby noticed a little boy sitting at a booth with his dad. He looked to be about Abby's age. I thought it a bit odd that his dad was feeding the little boy. But our girls have torn food for their babies to handle on their own from about 12 months of age. That's my frame of reference. Abby and I just smiled at each other.
There was a bench outside the doors of Dairy Queen and she wanted to sit there awhile too. So we sat.
As we sat on the bench, Abby's adorable little feet were swinging and she chatted easily. First about the antique "cahr pahrked ovah thehre." Then about the "birhds" in the "gwass." We exchanged licks of our cones with one another. Deciding we liked our own best.
After a quiet moment, she glanced back in at the little boy and his dad. I followed her gaze and we watched the dad who was still feeding the boy. We turned to face the parking lot once again.
"He's tweating him like a baby!" she announced.
"And he isn't a baby at all, is he?" my comment just confirmed her observation. That's when the wisdom poured out.....
Abby took another lick of her mint chocolate chip and stated, "He's choosing to be!"
I nearly gasped aloud. "Are you three or thirty-three?" was the thought in my head.
"You're right, sweetheart. Some people choose to act like babies even when they aren't. You're a smart little girl to know that."
She looked up at me, flashed her signature grin, and went on enjoying her ice cream.
Noni, however, had been handed something that I'll be chewing on for a long time. Scripture says, "...out of the mouths of babes..." A powerful truth had just come out of the mouth of that baby girl.
I hope you'll take the challenge of Abby's spontaneous sermon point and ponder it too.
Choose well - others are watching!
Monday, May 16, 2016
New Adventures
Today I'll do something I've never done before.
I heard of students doing this while I attended college in central FL. I always thought it sounded like a fun idea but there never seemed to be time for such an adventure.
To what am I referring?
Before this day ends, I will have been on both coasts of the state of Florida.
This morning I will drive with my dear friend Lalitha to Tampa. And although I may not even see the Gulf of Mexico, I'll be able to smell the salty air. Then this afternoon, Frank and I leave for our state conference being held at a church in Ormond Beach, located on the Atlantic Ocean.
My day of driving won't exactly be like the students used to plan. They would get up before dawn and drive to Tampa to watch the sunrise. Then they would hop in the car, drive the two and a half hours to Daytona to watch the sunset. When you're young and need a break from the crazy schedule of college, that's a great get-away.
My dual-coastal adventure is not for the purpose of a get-away. My friend and I are headed to the state department building in the heart of downtown Tampa. There, she will be sworn in as a citizen of the United States! This has been a long journey for Lalitha; I'm so honored to share the moment with her!
She grew up in Sri Lanka and has the beautiful features and accent to prove it. We met ten years ago when her family moved to Winter Haven and began attending our church. We've watched her little girl grow into a lovely young lady. Lalitha and I have prayed together over many issues.
Four years ago, I drove with her to Orlando to begin the official process of becoming a citizen. She has worked hard and jumped through many hoops to attain this. So today is a BIG DEAL! To say we're proud of her is an understatement. Let the celebrating begin......
As soon as we return, I'll hop back into the car with Frank and we'll drive to our conference - on the east coast. He and I had a quiet moment before the sun peaked over the horizon. We were talking about our day and I mentioned my dual coast adventure to him. "At some point before the conference is over," I whispered "I'd really love to at least see the Atlantic."
He gave me a hug and promised we would. It's not exactly a bucket list desire but maybe another time we'll go for the sunrise/sunset portion of the trip. Today I'll be content with celebrating the accomplishment of my dear friend; her moment in the sun.
And I'll simply mark it as, "New Adventure - One Day/Two Coasts" in my calendar.
What's something new you've done lately? I'd love to hear about it.
Let me leave you with a scripture that seems to go with the theme of the post. We've been rehearsing this one a lot lately, "His mercies are new every morning..." What a joyous thought - Blessings!
I heard of students doing this while I attended college in central FL. I always thought it sounded like a fun idea but there never seemed to be time for such an adventure.
To what am I referring?
Before this day ends, I will have been on both coasts of the state of Florida.
This morning I will drive with my dear friend Lalitha to Tampa. And although I may not even see the Gulf of Mexico, I'll be able to smell the salty air. Then this afternoon, Frank and I leave for our state conference being held at a church in Ormond Beach, located on the Atlantic Ocean.
My day of driving won't exactly be like the students used to plan. They would get up before dawn and drive to Tampa to watch the sunrise. Then they would hop in the car, drive the two and a half hours to Daytona to watch the sunset. When you're young and need a break from the crazy schedule of college, that's a great get-away.
My dual-coastal adventure is not for the purpose of a get-away. My friend and I are headed to the state department building in the heart of downtown Tampa. There, she will be sworn in as a citizen of the United States! This has been a long journey for Lalitha; I'm so honored to share the moment with her!
She grew up in Sri Lanka and has the beautiful features and accent to prove it. We met ten years ago when her family moved to Winter Haven and began attending our church. We've watched her little girl grow into a lovely young lady. Lalitha and I have prayed together over many issues.
Four years ago, I drove with her to Orlando to begin the official process of becoming a citizen. She has worked hard and jumped through many hoops to attain this. So today is a BIG DEAL! To say we're proud of her is an understatement. Let the celebrating begin......
As soon as we return, I'll hop back into the car with Frank and we'll drive to our conference - on the east coast. He and I had a quiet moment before the sun peaked over the horizon. We were talking about our day and I mentioned my dual coast adventure to him. "At some point before the conference is over," I whispered "I'd really love to at least see the Atlantic."
He gave me a hug and promised we would. It's not exactly a bucket list desire but maybe another time we'll go for the sunrise/sunset portion of the trip. Today I'll be content with celebrating the accomplishment of my dear friend; her moment in the sun.
And I'll simply mark it as, "New Adventure - One Day/Two Coasts" in my calendar.
What's something new you've done lately? I'd love to hear about it.
Let me leave you with a scripture that seems to go with the theme of the post. We've been rehearsing this one a lot lately, "His mercies are new every morning..." What a joyous thought - Blessings!
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
Do It - Today!
So this is what happens when a writer is rebuked for not writing!
And it was another writer shouting to me from his desk tucked away in Egypt during the late 1800's who got my attention. "Beware of the tendency to ask the way when you know it perfectly well. Take the initiative - stop hesitating - take the first step." Oswald Chambers
Who couldn't get moving after being called out in such a blatant way? I laced up my tennis shoes for a quick walk as soon as the sun topped the horizon. I made sure my bed was made and all clothes were on their appropriate hangars.
Finally, here I am at the first open moment writing a long overdue post.
Since last writing, we've traversed a lot of fast running waters:
I found out that there would be a penguin show about forty minutes after we were scheduled to leave. Spencer has loved penguins since holding a stuffed one when he was about eighteen months old. Well, what good is driving your own car to a field trip experience if not for ditching the schedule and waiting to see the penguins, right?! So wait we did.
It meant we were both extra tired by the time we headed back to my car. We walked slowly, quietly hand in hand.
Spencer: "Noni, my feet hurt."
Noni: "I know, Buddy. Mine are tired too."
Spencer: "You shouldn't walk this far until your feet are bigger!"
Yes, that's going in my quote book. I didn't write it that day and I should have.
But after the wake up call from Rev. Chambers this morning, I've determined not to let tired feet keep me from making the steps I need to make! Doing the things I need to do. Making the calls. Sending the emails. Writing the post. Completing the chapter.
Action is important and there's no better time than the present!
Maybe this post will be an encouraging call for you, as well. "Take the initiative....make a beginning.....instruct yourself in the way you must go." --Chambers I feel pretty sure that others will benefit from our decisions to Do It - Today!
And it was another writer shouting to me from his desk tucked away in Egypt during the late 1800's who got my attention. "Beware of the tendency to ask the way when you know it perfectly well. Take the initiative - stop hesitating - take the first step." Oswald Chambers
Who couldn't get moving after being called out in such a blatant way? I laced up my tennis shoes for a quick walk as soon as the sun topped the horizon. I made sure my bed was made and all clothes were on their appropriate hangars.
Finally, here I am at the first open moment writing a long overdue post.
Since last writing, we've traversed a lot of fast running waters:
- Cody and Kristin purchased and moved into their first little home.
- Madison (Meagan and Nathan's baby) spent four days in the hospital with a form of childhood pneumonia.
- I cooked for and hosted two lovely groups in our home.
- Frank and I made a quick trip to NC for the beautiful wedding of a niece.
- I continued to meet reps and research publishing opportunities.
- I've written sermons and preached three times.
- Made it through a bad case of hives and a stomach bug.
- Cheered with John and Joy who catered for almost 1000 people in a matter of three weeks.
- And topped off all that with our first church camp out! (Yes, Doubters. I slept in a tent. But we did splurge by buying a great air mattress.)
I found out that there would be a penguin show about forty minutes after we were scheduled to leave. Spencer has loved penguins since holding a stuffed one when he was about eighteen months old. Well, what good is driving your own car to a field trip experience if not for ditching the schedule and waiting to see the penguins, right?! So wait we did.
It meant we were both extra tired by the time we headed back to my car. We walked slowly, quietly hand in hand.
Spencer: "Noni, my feet hurt."
Noni: "I know, Buddy. Mine are tired too."
Spencer: "You shouldn't walk this far until your feet are bigger!"
Yes, that's going in my quote book. I didn't write it that day and I should have.
But after the wake up call from Rev. Chambers this morning, I've determined not to let tired feet keep me from making the steps I need to make! Doing the things I need to do. Making the calls. Sending the emails. Writing the post. Completing the chapter.
Action is important and there's no better time than the present!
Maybe this post will be an encouraging call for you, as well. "Take the initiative....make a beginning.....instruct yourself in the way you must go." --Chambers I feel pretty sure that others will benefit from our decisions to Do It - Today!
Saturday, April 9, 2016
Stingy Sparrow
My backyard bird feeders are a source of great Joy!
We have three. Each carefully positioned to provide the birds safety and to give me maximum visibility. My favorite is shaped like a miniature porch swing. Tiny white, slat boards form the back, seat, and arm rests. Too precious! It's a favorite with the birds as well.
My best mornings begin with a cup of coffee which I drink while sitting on the back screened porch; watching the sunrise and waiting for the birds to arrive. Frank knows how much I enjoy this ritual, so he's diligent about keeping the feeders stocked. Love that man o' mine!
We originally hoped to draw doves, my mom's favorite birds. That happened rather quickly. This spring we've added sparrows, a couple of red birds, a fabulous little blue bird and even a dim-witted wood pecker.
I say "dim-witted" because although the smaller feeder won't hold his weight, he forgets every time and wastes all sorts of energy trying to find a foothold. A few times I've witnessed him literally hang upside down for several seconds while he composes himself and starts again! It's futile - but he foolishly keeps trying.
(A little side note: Psychologists tell us that insanity is doing the same thing over and over in exactly the same way while hoping for a different outcome. Food for thought.)
In this part of Florida, we also have huge cranes that must surely have inspired the Muppet version of Big Bird. The adult cranes stand five feet tall and can be rather intimidating to small children and their grandmothers. They're majestic creatures and very protective of their family units.
My feeders weren't meant for the cranes. We purchase seed specifically formulated for the smaller sized birds. But the cranes didn't mind. In fact, they found it quite convenient that our feeders were originally placed right at "chin" level for their dining pleasure.
Those aggravating monsters would stand at the feeders and wipe out all the seed in a matter of minutes. We caught on to their game and moved the feeders higher up, post haste!
Three days later, Frank watched with no small measure of delight as the puzzled cranes wandered around and around their former feeding troughs. They stretched and squawked and strutted. But we had taken care of the problem. No more seed for them!
He said it took the aviary giants all of about ten minutes to figure out that if they bumped the bottom of the feeders with their beaks, delicious seeds would still fall to the ground. This they did, post haste!
Do you KNOW how humbling it is to be bested by a BIRD?!
There's a lesson to be learned everyday if we watch for it. And one of my most powerful lessons came last week from the tiniest visitor to our bird restaurant.
I mentioned that sparrows have just discovered our sumptuous banquet this spring. Watching them flit about has been such fun. I had no idea that some varieties have slight coloring in their feathers. Then there are the joyful chirpings and songs they share.
With each sighting, I'm reminded of what Jesus told his friends about the sparrows. "Not even a sparrow falls to the ground without my Father knowing it. How much more valuable are YOU?!"
(Emphasis mine.)
Frank had re-filled the swing just the day before. I watched and quietly sipped my steaming coffee as the visitors began to arrive. First the doves. They're typically the earliest birds. They ate and cooed and called out to others then went on their way.
Next the red bird with his brilliant crest. Then his mate with more subtle coloring. A bluejay did a quick fly by. But he didn't stay long; wrong flavored seeds, I think.
As my coffee disappeared, about a half-dozen sparrows came on the scene. They sang their gratitude flitting back and forth between the two feeders. I lingered just long enough to witness a real life lesson.
A final sparrow flew in and went immediately to the large swing, still laden with seed. A different sparrow pecked contentedly at the other end. When a third tiny guest landed on the back of the feeder, the first one suddenly took ownership of what didn't belong to him.
The sparrow became aggressive, flying at the other two while scolding them loudly. He didn't want to share with the bird at the far end and he definitely had no intentions of making room for the one who had just landed.
I watched in amazement as the little pontiff paced up and down the foot long feeder, daring any other bird to come near. He even flew at the birds on the circular feeder. Then quickly returned to protect his territory on the larger swing.
His anger and frustration knew no bounds, it appeared. And having laid claim to this new stash, he had no intentions of sharing. None!
The other birds had already been there a while. So after a few more attempts, they flew off for friendlier skies. (Pun totally intended!)
What happened next struck me to the core!
The stingy sparrow watched triumphantly as the others flew away then turned to fill his selfish little gut. Only he couldn't eat in peace. He was too busy watching. Too startled by every noise, thinking the others were returning.
He literally paced the feeder, screeching at any would-be intruders. But the other birds were long gone. There was no reason for the sparrow's behavior!
He had what he wanted. But it immediately became a burden instead of the blessing we had intended.
The lesson was clear. That sparrow had done nothing to obtain the stash he was guarding so pathetically. He hadn't built the feeder he paced. He hadn't milled the seed. He hadn't even created the wings he used to beat the others away. But he was trapped by his greed!
And so it is with us when we forget that every good and perfect gift in our lives has been given us freely by our heavenly father. It's so easy to allow ourselves to lose perspective. To think we've done it all and therefore we must protect it all.
Greed can take hold quickly and can impact us for a lifetime. We can become stingy, unpleasant people; chasing away all who would joyfully share life with us if we'd only allow them.
After watching the little bird a few moments longer, I bowed my head and asked God to show me any part of greed in my life.
I've lived long enough to know that gratitude breaks the grip of stinginess. So, I lingered quite a while telling my heavenly father how grateful I am for every wonderful gift of provision He has placed in my world.
The stingy sparrow did serve one good purpose that day. He reminded me to be generous with all I have and lavish with my gratitude toward the Father.
Lesson Marked!
We have three. Each carefully positioned to provide the birds safety and to give me maximum visibility. My favorite is shaped like a miniature porch swing. Tiny white, slat boards form the back, seat, and arm rests. Too precious! It's a favorite with the birds as well.
My best mornings begin with a cup of coffee which I drink while sitting on the back screened porch; watching the sunrise and waiting for the birds to arrive. Frank knows how much I enjoy this ritual, so he's diligent about keeping the feeders stocked. Love that man o' mine!
We originally hoped to draw doves, my mom's favorite birds. That happened rather quickly. This spring we've added sparrows, a couple of red birds, a fabulous little blue bird and even a dim-witted wood pecker.
I say "dim-witted" because although the smaller feeder won't hold his weight, he forgets every time and wastes all sorts of energy trying to find a foothold. A few times I've witnessed him literally hang upside down for several seconds while he composes himself and starts again! It's futile - but he foolishly keeps trying.
(A little side note: Psychologists tell us that insanity is doing the same thing over and over in exactly the same way while hoping for a different outcome. Food for thought.)
In this part of Florida, we also have huge cranes that must surely have inspired the Muppet version of Big Bird. The adult cranes stand five feet tall and can be rather intimidating to small children and their grandmothers. They're majestic creatures and very protective of their family units.
My feeders weren't meant for the cranes. We purchase seed specifically formulated for the smaller sized birds. But the cranes didn't mind. In fact, they found it quite convenient that our feeders were originally placed right at "chin" level for their dining pleasure.
Those aggravating monsters would stand at the feeders and wipe out all the seed in a matter of minutes. We caught on to their game and moved the feeders higher up, post haste!
Three days later, Frank watched with no small measure of delight as the puzzled cranes wandered around and around their former feeding troughs. They stretched and squawked and strutted. But we had taken care of the problem. No more seed for them!
He said it took the aviary giants all of about ten minutes to figure out that if they bumped the bottom of the feeders with their beaks, delicious seeds would still fall to the ground. This they did, post haste!
Do you KNOW how humbling it is to be bested by a BIRD?!
There's a lesson to be learned everyday if we watch for it. And one of my most powerful lessons came last week from the tiniest visitor to our bird restaurant.
I mentioned that sparrows have just discovered our sumptuous banquet this spring. Watching them flit about has been such fun. I had no idea that some varieties have slight coloring in their feathers. Then there are the joyful chirpings and songs they share.
With each sighting, I'm reminded of what Jesus told his friends about the sparrows. "Not even a sparrow falls to the ground without my Father knowing it. How much more valuable are YOU?!"
(Emphasis mine.)
Frank had re-filled the swing just the day before. I watched and quietly sipped my steaming coffee as the visitors began to arrive. First the doves. They're typically the earliest birds. They ate and cooed and called out to others then went on their way.
Next the red bird with his brilliant crest. Then his mate with more subtle coloring. A bluejay did a quick fly by. But he didn't stay long; wrong flavored seeds, I think.
As my coffee disappeared, about a half-dozen sparrows came on the scene. They sang their gratitude flitting back and forth between the two feeders. I lingered just long enough to witness a real life lesson.
A final sparrow flew in and went immediately to the large swing, still laden with seed. A different sparrow pecked contentedly at the other end. When a third tiny guest landed on the back of the feeder, the first one suddenly took ownership of what didn't belong to him.
The sparrow became aggressive, flying at the other two while scolding them loudly. He didn't want to share with the bird at the far end and he definitely had no intentions of making room for the one who had just landed.
I watched in amazement as the little pontiff paced up and down the foot long feeder, daring any other bird to come near. He even flew at the birds on the circular feeder. Then quickly returned to protect his territory on the larger swing.
His anger and frustration knew no bounds, it appeared. And having laid claim to this new stash, he had no intentions of sharing. None!
The other birds had already been there a while. So after a few more attempts, they flew off for friendlier skies. (Pun totally intended!)
What happened next struck me to the core!
The stingy sparrow watched triumphantly as the others flew away then turned to fill his selfish little gut. Only he couldn't eat in peace. He was too busy watching. Too startled by every noise, thinking the others were returning.
He literally paced the feeder, screeching at any would-be intruders. But the other birds were long gone. There was no reason for the sparrow's behavior!
He had what he wanted. But it immediately became a burden instead of the blessing we had intended.
The lesson was clear. That sparrow had done nothing to obtain the stash he was guarding so pathetically. He hadn't built the feeder he paced. He hadn't milled the seed. He hadn't even created the wings he used to beat the others away. But he was trapped by his greed!
And so it is with us when we forget that every good and perfect gift in our lives has been given us freely by our heavenly father. It's so easy to allow ourselves to lose perspective. To think we've done it all and therefore we must protect it all.
Greed can take hold quickly and can impact us for a lifetime. We can become stingy, unpleasant people; chasing away all who would joyfully share life with us if we'd only allow them.
After watching the little bird a few moments longer, I bowed my head and asked God to show me any part of greed in my life.
I've lived long enough to know that gratitude breaks the grip of stinginess. So, I lingered quite a while telling my heavenly father how grateful I am for every wonderful gift of provision He has placed in my world.
The stingy sparrow did serve one good purpose that day. He reminded me to be generous with all I have and lavish with my gratitude toward the Father.
Lesson Marked!
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Amazing People
Medical Professionals are AMAZING People!
Especially those who remember that hospitals can be intimidating places for the rest of us.
This morning started at 5:30 for us as we drove to Shriner's Children's Hospital in Tampa. Zach (John and Joy's baby) was to have the first of two surgeries to correct a genetic problem.
We've experienced this with Spencer and Abby, too. But the anxiety is fresh and reaches deep into our hearts each time.
How do you explain to an eight month old that the masked faces, loud noises and needle sticks are necessary? How do you convince him that the pain has purpose? How do you keep yourself from crying when their little eyes are wide with fear and filled with real tears?
Hospitals are intimidating places! Even for those of us who walk the halls on a regular basis for ministry purposes. When it's your own little one, when your family wears the "patient badge," you become the one reaching for comfort.
Thankfully, Zachariah Avery came through the surgery well. He rolled out of recovery with a cast protecting his left foot and extending up to his chubby thigh. The post-op team couldn't evaluate the color of his toes properly. So, a loud saw had to be used to remove an edge of the neon green cast material.
Joy (fierce little mamma that she is) walks and bounces her weeping child. Comforting him with the voice he's known since conception. Her shushing offers him the only peace he can absorb right now.
She slept two brief hours last night; but her confident steps don't tell of her exhaustion. Adrenaline can serve a purpose when necessary.
John takes a turn and speaks lovingly to his son; cheering him on in the first battle of his young life. We hear a modified version of "Jesus Loves Me" coming from a piano in the playroom. John is playing with one hand while cradling Zach with the other.
We live in a broken, imperfect world. And we all experience things that make no sense. Unfair things. Painful things.
But even in these moments, there are rays of light to be found - if we look.
Grace, the lovely Haitian nurse, greeted us first with a big smile and a friendly, "Hello! I remember you from the last time you were here." That was well over a year ago. Her kindness felt like a warm blanket.
Stephanie and Jennifer came into the room with peace and confidence. Too bubbly, and they would have seemed insincere. They're both young ladies and left sweet babies of their own at home. They freely express their empathy for Joy and John.
These people are professionals. They know the fine line between comfort and annoyance. The nurses here carefully watch our faces and take their cues. Amazing!
We'll leave as soon as Zach is cleared. Everyone knows you rest better in your own environment. Zach will quickly learn to navigate in spite of the cumbersome cast on his leg. This will be a life moment remembered more clearly by the adults than by the baby.
Grace, Stephanie, Jennifer, the anesthesiologist, the surgeon...........the team is large. A rare breed of people. They each stop by to comfort, instruct, console, or just exclaim over Zachariah's dimples and engaging smile.
They deal with frightened children and parents every day. Some, suffering with life-threatening illness. It's easy to see that our family is receiving the same steady treatment they shower on everyone.
Most, at this hospital, are volunteers!
I'm not sure how Shriner's Hospital manages all they do. But this is one grateful Noni singing the praises of their professionals and their facilities!
Truly Amazing People!
Especially those who remember that hospitals can be intimidating places for the rest of us.
This morning started at 5:30 for us as we drove to Shriner's Children's Hospital in Tampa. Zach (John and Joy's baby) was to have the first of two surgeries to correct a genetic problem.
We've experienced this with Spencer and Abby, too. But the anxiety is fresh and reaches deep into our hearts each time.
How do you explain to an eight month old that the masked faces, loud noises and needle sticks are necessary? How do you convince him that the pain has purpose? How do you keep yourself from crying when their little eyes are wide with fear and filled with real tears?
Hospitals are intimidating places! Even for those of us who walk the halls on a regular basis for ministry purposes. When it's your own little one, when your family wears the "patient badge," you become the one reaching for comfort.
Thankfully, Zachariah Avery came through the surgery well. He rolled out of recovery with a cast protecting his left foot and extending up to his chubby thigh. The post-op team couldn't evaluate the color of his toes properly. So, a loud saw had to be used to remove an edge of the neon green cast material.
Joy (fierce little mamma that she is) walks and bounces her weeping child. Comforting him with the voice he's known since conception. Her shushing offers him the only peace he can absorb right now.
She slept two brief hours last night; but her confident steps don't tell of her exhaustion. Adrenaline can serve a purpose when necessary.
John takes a turn and speaks lovingly to his son; cheering him on in the first battle of his young life. We hear a modified version of "Jesus Loves Me" coming from a piano in the playroom. John is playing with one hand while cradling Zach with the other.
We live in a broken, imperfect world. And we all experience things that make no sense. Unfair things. Painful things.
But even in these moments, there are rays of light to be found - if we look.
Grace, the lovely Haitian nurse, greeted us first with a big smile and a friendly, "Hello! I remember you from the last time you were here." That was well over a year ago. Her kindness felt like a warm blanket.
Stephanie and Jennifer came into the room with peace and confidence. Too bubbly, and they would have seemed insincere. They're both young ladies and left sweet babies of their own at home. They freely express their empathy for Joy and John.
These people are professionals. They know the fine line between comfort and annoyance. The nurses here carefully watch our faces and take their cues. Amazing!
We'll leave as soon as Zach is cleared. Everyone knows you rest better in your own environment. Zach will quickly learn to navigate in spite of the cumbersome cast on his leg. This will be a life moment remembered more clearly by the adults than by the baby.
Grace, Stephanie, Jennifer, the anesthesiologist, the surgeon...........the team is large. A rare breed of people. They each stop by to comfort, instruct, console, or just exclaim over Zachariah's dimples and engaging smile.
They deal with frightened children and parents every day. Some, suffering with life-threatening illness. It's easy to see that our family is receiving the same steady treatment they shower on everyone.
Most, at this hospital, are volunteers!
I'm not sure how Shriner's Hospital manages all they do. But this is one grateful Noni singing the praises of their professionals and their facilities!
Truly Amazing People!
Friday, March 11, 2016
This 'N That
I have a rather eclectic post for you today. Funny Story. Great Reminder. Cute Poem.
So first, the Funny Story......
Last week I was helping Abby in the bathroom. She hopped up onto the potty and sat looking at me thoughtfully. Her massive blue eyes gazed intently through the lovely pink princess glasses she wears. I smiled when I sensed that a question was forming.
"Noni," wait for it... "Why iz youh heyre wet?" (The word "wet" was the most clear and held added emphasis.)
I glanced into the mirror and swiped at my dry but windblown tresses. True, it was rather messy. But I honestly thought it looked ok.
"Well," I launched into my explanation only to be cut short by the three year old. "Noni has been in the wind and I guess that makes my hair look wet. But it's dry, I......"
"No, Noni!" Her impatience was evident. "Why iz youh heyre WED?"
I burst out laughing. Meagan had just colored my hair the day before and it had a little more red tint than normal. (Maybe a LOT more red tint than normal.)
"Because, Precious. Aunt Meme colored it for me yesterday."
"Oh! I frew." (Which being interpreted meant. "Well, I don't like it that color but Mom has already taught me to just say Oh. And now I'm through with the potty so let's get on with it.") These babies!
Next the Great Reminder.......
Frank has been my pastor for about 35 years now. Which means I've heard him preach well over 20,000 sermons! That's not taking into account the many Bible studies and devotionals and funeral/wedding sermons. Wow! That's a lot of theology expressing!
But he does a great job and still holds my attention after all these years.
Last week was a prime example of his careful attempts to help people understand and retain the main point.
When we came into the sanctuary, we discovered a table that had been positioned on stage. It was draped with a black tablecloth and held some large, ominous-looking object; also draped with a black cloth.
At the appointed time in his sermon, Frank sauntered over to the table all the while talking about the importance of connection. (That's the focus of our church for the month of March.)
He casually removed the top cloth to reveal a huge green industrial fan.
He talked about all the wonderful things a fan of that sort can accomplish. Drying wet carpet. Driving out bad odors. Cooling a large area. The inventor of the fan created it for those specific purposes.
At that point, Frank took a pen from his pocket and demonstrated that he had the ability to twirl the blades of the fan. Standing directly in front of it, you could feel a little breeze but certainly not the powerful wind it was designed to create. And Frank's arm tired quickly trying to imitate the work the fan was supposed to do.
Then, he plugged the fan into the nearby electrical outlet.......and it roared to life! The people sitting on those first few rows got a real taste of how effective the fan could be.
Frank switched it off and made this comparison.
We are all designed to accomplish great things. But we can't do it on our own; we must be connected to our Power Source. When we start getting tired with our Christian service, it's time to check and see if we're working under our own ability again. Taking time to re-connect with the Source of Life (Christ Jesus) will help us roar to life once more.
Now you know why I'm still not bored with his preaching.
Finally, the Cute Poem........
This Sunday will be my turn to bring the message; about Connection. Only my sermon will be about connecting with those around us.
While preparing, I was reminded of a great poem I frequently saw when visiting my dear Asheville friend, Judy. The poem was on a small plaque that graced her kitchen for all the years I was around. It goes like this:
The wise old owl sat in the oak.
The more he saw, the less he spoke.
The less he spoke, the more he heard.
Why aren't we all like this wise old bird?
May your weekend be blessed with laughter and healthy connectedness!
So first, the Funny Story......
Last week I was helping Abby in the bathroom. She hopped up onto the potty and sat looking at me thoughtfully. Her massive blue eyes gazed intently through the lovely pink princess glasses she wears. I smiled when I sensed that a question was forming.
"Noni," wait for it... "Why iz youh heyre wet?" (The word "wet" was the most clear and held added emphasis.)
I glanced into the mirror and swiped at my dry but windblown tresses. True, it was rather messy. But I honestly thought it looked ok.
"Well," I launched into my explanation only to be cut short by the three year old. "Noni has been in the wind and I guess that makes my hair look wet. But it's dry, I......"
"No, Noni!" Her impatience was evident. "Why iz youh heyre WED?"
I burst out laughing. Meagan had just colored my hair the day before and it had a little more red tint than normal. (Maybe a LOT more red tint than normal.)
"Because, Precious. Aunt Meme colored it for me yesterday."
"Oh! I frew." (Which being interpreted meant. "Well, I don't like it that color but Mom has already taught me to just say Oh. And now I'm through with the potty so let's get on with it.") These babies!
Next the Great Reminder.......
Frank has been my pastor for about 35 years now. Which means I've heard him preach well over 20,000 sermons! That's not taking into account the many Bible studies and devotionals and funeral/wedding sermons. Wow! That's a lot of theology expressing!
But he does a great job and still holds my attention after all these years.
Last week was a prime example of his careful attempts to help people understand and retain the main point.
When we came into the sanctuary, we discovered a table that had been positioned on stage. It was draped with a black tablecloth and held some large, ominous-looking object; also draped with a black cloth.
At the appointed time in his sermon, Frank sauntered over to the table all the while talking about the importance of connection. (That's the focus of our church for the month of March.)
He casually removed the top cloth to reveal a huge green industrial fan.
He talked about all the wonderful things a fan of that sort can accomplish. Drying wet carpet. Driving out bad odors. Cooling a large area. The inventor of the fan created it for those specific purposes.
At that point, Frank took a pen from his pocket and demonstrated that he had the ability to twirl the blades of the fan. Standing directly in front of it, you could feel a little breeze but certainly not the powerful wind it was designed to create. And Frank's arm tired quickly trying to imitate the work the fan was supposed to do.
Then, he plugged the fan into the nearby electrical outlet.......and it roared to life! The people sitting on those first few rows got a real taste of how effective the fan could be.
Frank switched it off and made this comparison.
We are all designed to accomplish great things. But we can't do it on our own; we must be connected to our Power Source. When we start getting tired with our Christian service, it's time to check and see if we're working under our own ability again. Taking time to re-connect with the Source of Life (Christ Jesus) will help us roar to life once more.
Now you know why I'm still not bored with his preaching.
Finally, the Cute Poem........
This Sunday will be my turn to bring the message; about Connection. Only my sermon will be about connecting with those around us.
While preparing, I was reminded of a great poem I frequently saw when visiting my dear Asheville friend, Judy. The poem was on a small plaque that graced her kitchen for all the years I was around. It goes like this:
The wise old owl sat in the oak.
The more he saw, the less he spoke.
The less he spoke, the more he heard.
Why aren't we all like this wise old bird?
May your weekend be blessed with laughter and healthy connectedness!
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