As the beauty of the season deepens with each passing day, I'm gaining a new appreciation of the important role Nature plays in bringing comfort and joy to our sometimes fretful nerves and heart.
Have you ever found that during those times when you've grown weary with well-doing, or become anxious over a troubled relationship, or when you're reeling from news that hit you totally out of the blue, there's nothing like going for a walk in nature or experiencing the beauty and tranquility of your garden. Somehow it restores peace to your anxious thoughts.
This Spring I've been watching a pair of tree swallows set up housekeeping in one of our nest boxes. As I sat on the deck one day watching their comings and goings, I noticed a soft, comforting peace settle on my shoulders like a cozy quilt.
I had been struggling with some areas that threatened my peace and joy, and those little tree swallows were God's gift to me that day. For as I listen to their lilting songs and watched their seeming delight in finding a suitable home in my garden, my spirits lifted. The joy and serenity replaces that fretful moment and order is restored. I am comforted.
Perhaps that's why I like this Ralph Emerson Waldo quote:
"Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything that is beautiful, for beauty is God's handwriting -- a wayside sacrament. Welcome it in every fair face, in every fair sky, in every flower, and thank God for it as a cup of blessing."
Hugs,
Brenda
xox
Brenda
xox
Hi Brenda, I had a moment with a tiny sparrow on my deck. He was trying hard to get a look in a small plant i have out there. I think he was looking for water and I was reminded that God loves the sparrow and wants me to give him a drink> I set a small bowl of water out for him but I haven't seen him come back . I am watching today for him but I really don't want a whole flock coming in here for water. Your note today was very uplifting.
ReplyDeletelove you MOM
One reason I start each of my days going for a walk is for that very reason. Seeing all the beauty around me is a great start to the day.
ReplyDeletestarting or writing in a gratitude journal can help peace come too when life starts to feel overwhelming.
ReplyDeleteI love listening to the birds sing their sweet tunes. They do cheer up my day!
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean! I had a flock of cedar waxwings in our backyard today. They were splashing in the little puddles the sprinkler left on the lawn. It was such a joy to watch them enjoy the water! They are such beautiful and elegant birds, with truly exquisite markings. The tenor of my day improved by a huge leap, just being able to watch the birds and listen to their cheery chirping!
ReplyDeleteoh, this is so nice! Yes, when life feels heavy there is nothing like God's living-room to draw us to Him.
ReplyDelete