Fresh focus

Good Afternoon, or whatever is the best greeting to you, in your part of the world!

It has been a gorgeous day! Blue skies, sunshine, and about 44 degrees Farenheit! It feels as if Spring may be 'just around the corner!'

Starting early, we have had a full day thus far; and are looking forward to an illuminating appointment later this afternoon at our house. As mentioned in a recent post, we are in the midst of making major decisions (You can refer to Feb 6th post,' Always Learning', if you wish a bit of background info); and this is just one more of them today.

There are times, when you need to take tid stock; and have the courage to not be caught up in all the overly broadcasted 'doom and gloom'; even if everyone else around you, appears to be! To me, it is as if a red flag has been put in front of me! ie Be around those who are positive 'swimmers', and also those, who are doing their best to 'stay afloat'. 'Wallowing' and / or 'throwing in the towel', and being perpetually 'down', (based on world pessimism, fear, confusion, doubt, etc) does not compute; nor is it good for one's morale. We have empathy; however, negativity can spread like an uncontrolled blaze. We are maintaining thus, an opptimistic focus; eventhough there have been several moments when we have been / are 'swimming upstream'. And yet, these various experiences are giving us strength, as well as a greater appreciation for our Blessings.

Our classmate, Joan, is at Peace (her Memorial Service was Saturday; wrote a bittid in my Feb 8th post,'Be of good cheer!'). We will forever, remember her for the 'special' person she was / is; and she is a glowing Christian example of character, inner strength, and steadfast determination. One of our grieving school chums was wondering why did Joan have to pass away at such a 'young' age? Good question; however, methinks (and I gently shared my thought with her) that 'it simply was her time; and that He now has another Purpose for her in Heaven'.

In Joan's Memorial Bulletin, there was / is a beautiful passage, 'Walking with Grief', by George MacDonald. Perhaps this may help some of you who are going through some sad grieving times. This is a wonderfully comforting and gentle tidbit message.

'Walking with Grief'

Do not hurry
as you walk with grief
it does not help the journey

Walk slowly,
pausing often
do not hurry as you walk with grief.

Be not disturbed
by memories that come unbidden.

Swiftly forgive;
and let Christ speak for you
unspoken words;
Unfinished conversation
will be resolved in Him.
Be not disturbed.

Be gentle with the one who walks with grief.
If it is you,
be gentle with yourself.
Swiftly forgive;
walk slowly,
pausing often.

Take time, be gentle
as you walk with grief.

Have taken some photos of our 'tulips'; although the pictures do not do them justice! They look so 'real'; and everyone who comes to our home, always comments on their realistic and fresh beauty!

Hope to be back with some positive tidbitz in a bittidz!

Peace and God Bless.