Love, Pure & Simple

What I've Learned: God Gives Us Teammates for a Reason.
This post is just a little thank you note, dear Reader, to the four wonderful families who took time out of their hectic lives last month to pose for portraits.  Pastor Jim spoke about overcoming the fear of failure at my church recently.  One of the points he made was that when we face a challenge that we fear is more than we can handle, we should ask God to give us teammates--people with whom we can share our burdens.

I needed more portrait practice before tackling my first wedding this fall, so I put out the word that I needed families to photograph.  These lovely families graciously agreed to get all gorgeous and put on their best smiles to help me out.  The results of those four shoots were nothing less than my best work to date. 

Who can resist that face?

The shoots went beautifully (whether we had rain or sunshine!) and after editing each batch, I excitedly presented the families with the best of their images.  Fortunately, all seemed to be as pleased with them as I was.  What a great opportunity to use my lens to show them how beautiful they are!   

A Life Lived for God

But the echoes of this experience didn't stop there.  This endeavor also blessed me with two renewed friendships and the forging of a third new acquaintance.  Have to admit, I'm amazed at the ways God works in all of our lives--the simple way he takes an act of kindness and turns it into a way to serve others while strengthening His kingdom.  He even made it possible for Brother & I to work together on this project and spend some quality time.  All that and I got to be creative too!  Just goes to show, God knows just what we need and exactly how to weave it all together.

A Girl & Her Horse

So, thank you, my dear friends for your kind generosity.  Thank you for sharing your families with me and for letting me capture a hint of who you are.  Thank you for cheering me on as I tackle the next challenge: a wonderful and love-filled wedding.  Your help has meant more than you know.

Dahlia, Pencil Sketch Effect

Our Father is preparing us to meet the deep inner needs of others by bringing us through the dark places first. ~ Chuck Swindoll

God...comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.    2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV

What I've Learned: There are No Lessons Without Learning.
Dear Reader, the above quotes came from yesterday's message on my reusable spiral-bound daily devotional.  A Baptism gift from my spiritual mentor, the devotional features one deeply-ponderable topic or challenging thought accompanied by a Bible verse each day for 365 days.  I have found it tremendously inspiring these last months and keep it on my desk at work where it occasionally sparks a conversation.

Yesterday, I turned the page from the previous day and was immediately struck by the relevance of the topic and verse.  Lately, I find myself going over and over the pain of past events in my life.  My head is full of small revelations about cause, effect, and the still unfolding, far-reaching ramifications.  The above idea of using the pain we endure as a tool to help us guide others through their pain sits well within me.  It has that feel of a God-inspired revelation in the making.  Which usually means I could soon face a situation where it will come in handy.

The thing I'm learning about this spiritual journey, is that I only continue to grow and become more Christ-like if I take the time to pay attention and learn.  It's not a passive process.  With that in mind, this week I started two different Bible studies: one through my church and another through the church of an old high school friend.  One is a women's group.  The other, involves men, women, adults, and children (in a child-care-built-right-in atmosphere).  One group is comprised entirely of Caucasian people.  The other, entirely African American--except for me.  Both are incredibly warm and welcoming.  Both have a definite sense of how to proceed in a group setting, though they take markedly different approaches.  One is currently studying Women of Contentment in the Book of Ecclesiates.  The other, a MasterLife series on Discipleship.  Both studies involve daily readings, quiet time with God and...homework.

Homework five days out of seven.  I feel like I'm back in college again...and I'm kinda lovin' it.  Between the two studies, I'm all over the Bible every day.  Job, Ephesians, Genesis, 1 Corinthians, Luke & John--I'm finding good stuff everywhere I look!  I know, I should be overwhelmed.  I should be confuddled, not knowing what to apply where or overrun with questions and no time to sit and ponder them. 

But that isn't the case.  In fact, each concept we study in one group seems to magnify or reflect lessons in the other.  I've always been a big picture, extrapolate & draw-conclusions sort of thinker.  Did my best academic work in college when my classes happened to overlap material.  Each new perspective on the same topic yields a new and fascinating facet to be understood.  It's like changing the lighting while shooting a photo and getting a whole new image.

Bottom line, I am seeking knowledge and understanding of God's Word and how it affects my life.  I want my life to change.  I want to be different--a better person than I have been for 35 years.  I want to see Jesus in what I do and say; in the ways I interact with others and impact their lives. 

But this, like everything else in life, is a choice.  You have to choose to walk that path.  You can also choose to stand still or run back to what you already know.  I've tried those things.  They don't work for me.  So, I'm gonna try something radically new.  If going back to school to learn about Jesus is what it takes, this girl is all in.  Will keep you posted on what we're learning...   
              

H Family Photo, Fox River, Elgin, IL

God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt...
        ~Dave Barnes 'God Gave Me You'


What I've Learned: Blessings Reverberate.
Happy September, dear Reader!  Last week, while praying for guidance and God's wisdom as I prepare to shoot my first wedding in October, I felt Him nudging me to contact a few friends via Facebook and offer them free family portraits in exchange for the chance to practice shooting with my new gear.  I was super excited when all three agreed. 

Casual Couple's Shot

 This past Sunday, Brother (my official photography assistant) and I went to a service at the Joy River Baptist Church, in Elgin.  Joy River is 'home church' for VH, a dear high school friend that I haven't seen in over 15 years.  She invited us to the service and we arranged to shoot photos with her, her husband and their three adorable children after that.  After some wonderful fellowship and a great message given by Rev. Cynthia Hill, we walked outside and down to the newly re-landscaped banks of the Fox River in downtown Elgin. 

Love is a fine thing.

Brother, who was very professional and helpful, assisted in getting everyone posed and smiling broadly.  Then I got into the 'photo zone' and just enjoyed using my gear to capture the H family's natural joy.  What a pleasure!  Afterwards, I thanked my friend, promised to drop by her bible study later in the week and went home to see what kind of shots I'd gotten.  After working the editing magic, I was very pleased with the resulting 25 photos.  Here are my very favorites from that batch for your enjoyment, Reader.

Soon to be tickled...

 What a blessing this opportunity turned out to be!  Not only did I get to take (and give) great photos, but also got the chance to reconnect with my friend and build a wonderful new friendship--as Christian women.  I went to VH's bible study earlier this evening and found that God has provided an ideal opportunity for me to study His word with like-minded fellow believers.  The blessings of that simple request for a photo op continue to reverberate through the new lives I'm encountering and certainly, my own. Can't wait to see where they will lead next!

In Love

         
There’s more here than what we're seeing
A divine conspiracy
That you, an angel lovely
Could somehow fall for me...
          ~Dave Barnes 'God Gave Me You'

My New Diet Plan (a.k.a I Love Cheese)

What I've Learned: Being A Fast Oxidizer Rules!

Met with the nutritionist yesterday, Reader, for an hour-long metabolic consult to determine what type of metabolism I have and which healthy eating plan would be the most beneficial. This is all part of my RELINQUISH focus for 2011: I'm letting God guide me in healthier lifestyle choices for my body, soul and pocketbook.

Having never seen a nutritionist before, I went in kinda nervous. What if she told me I could only eat stuff I don't like? What if the best way to accomplish what God wants for my life is to give up on tasty food? Do I have the strength to do that? What if it's yucky?

After some informative supplement talk, the nutritionist revealed my diet plan. Turns out, God doesn't want me to endure yucky. He wants me to rejoice in Cheese. Well, at least in protein and fats. I'm what they call a Fast Oxidizer, which means that I do best on a diet low in sugar and carbohydrates but high in protein and good fats. So yes, breads, potatoes, rice, pasta, chocolate and coffee are now off limits.

I should be in tears. I should be heartbroken I can no longer eat raspberry buttercreams from Fannie May. Instead, I could hardly tear my eyes away from the list of foods I do get to eat, which includes: 17 kinds of cheese, salted butter, heavy whipping cream, whole milk, eggs, bacon, beef, lobster, caviar and scallops as well as 18 other kinds of my favorite seafood. Most of my favorite vegetables are on the list too: spinach, asparagus, cauliflower, mushrooms, avocado and olives. The list also includes: bananas, most nuts, corn, peas and 35 herbs & spices.

I started laughing. I asked the nutritionist if she was serious. Do I really get to eat all this? This is good for me? She assured me it is. Suddenly, my new healthy eating plan seemed like the Holy Grail. Who knew that all the stuff I've been craving (but that we're told is WAY too fattening) is exactly what my body needs? I was floored.

I thanked the nutritionist and left with a great big grin. I had trusted in God and was willing to do whatever He asked of me to get healthy. But never in a million years did I expect Him to find me a plan I could love as well as live with. Amazing!

At Table Rock in Maine, April 2005

 No question is so difficult to answer as that to which the answer is obvious.
~George Bernard Shaw

 What I've Learned: Seek & Ye Shall Find.
For years, Reader, I have searched for a love to fill me up. In retrospect, much of that need for love and acceptance stemmed from early childhood where I never lived up to my father's expectations.  That sense of being unloveable was compounded by a deep sense of loneliness and abandonment when my parents divorced.  I was seven years-old.  Years later, I assumed the bottomless craving in the middle of my being was for romantic love. So, all through my teen years, my 20's and into my 30's, I chased relationships. I squeezed myself into every romantic entanglement that looked even remotely viable (and a few that were obviously wrong from the start), all in the name of finding the perfect man to fulfill my every need, desire and fantasy of being loved.

Sure, it sounds silly now. But that's exactly what I was doing. I was sure that once I had real, romantic love, things would change. All the ugly parts of my life and character would suddenly begin to turn around. Being in love would somehow work the changes in me that I couldn't seem to bring about myself.

Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting. ~Daniel 5:27

Of course, it never worked. Even when I finally found a man who loved me, his flaws coupled with my own were enough to topple the relationship and leave me vaguely sure that finding a significant other still wouldn't solve the problem.  It took many years to realize that no mortal man is capable of the kind of love I craved. (And it was down-right unfair to lay that impossibly heavy burden on someone else.)

 But my need to be loved remained. It was there all through college as I sought to be a writer. It was there in every job I landed, driving me to find something--anything--to feel significant, respected. That need was the catalyst for turning a surly, tongue-tied kid into a boisterous, adventure-seeking extrovert who makes friends easily. Looking back, I'd been searching for anything to fill that emptiness my entire life.

So, what exactly did I need? Why wasn't the love of my wonderful mom and extended family enough to fill the void in my heart? Why was it still there, even when I acknowledged my flaws and shortcomings? What could possibly fill it? Even if a person could live with this giant hole inside, I knew I didn't want to.

People see God every day, they just don't recognize Him. ~Pearl Bailey

Turns out, God had been nudging me into the path of His love for years.  I met countless wonderful people who were living by Jesus' example and gently guiding me in the right direction. My dearest friend, Brown, was the first person to take me to a church where I found solace (a revelation for a confirmed atheist). My paternal grandfather lived out his faith every day of his life--though I wouldn't see the significance until after his death. While I lived in Texas for a year, a fabulous, high-heeled coworker-turned-confidant showed me each day how a love of the Lord had worked miracles in her life. Another friend came and demonstrated the unconditional love of Christ by helping me paint a room and move twice--all in one week.

And there were many more: people I came to admire and respect who had a steady, unwavering assuredness about where they were going and the peace of knowing whatever happened next, they were LOVED. In fact, they were so LOVED, that they were able to freely give that same LOVE to others. This was the kind of LOVE I had been looking for.

There is a God-shaped vacuum in every heart. ~Blaise Pascal

But there were a few obstacles. I didn't believe in God. I didn't know anything about faith. I'd heard of Jesus but was really skeptical and afraid that giving my life over to Him would mean succumbing to some sort of religious brainwashing where common sense and intellectual thought went right out the window. I was scared to consider believing in something I couldn't see or touch (Santa and the Easter Bunny had me a little gun-shy). What if it wasn't true? What if I were deluding myself?

Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.
~Martin Luther King Jr.

These questions scared me. But, I found myself continually drawn back to God and the deep peace His church offered. My need for LOVE was met when I went to worship. When I took the time to really, truly pray, I felt a deep sense of belonging--now I'd call it being a child of God. Sure, I left each service with more and more questions and some anxiety about where this spiritual seeking would take me, but I couldn't ignore the sense of peace--of rightness--I found in listening to God's Word spoken by God's people. As my desire to learn more and read the Bible grew, more spiritual advisers appeared with even more books and resources to help me make sense of what I was hearing.

I was told repeatedly that if I just kept seeking, I would begin to understand and God would find a way to bridge the chasm of my sins and all the ugliness that made me feel unworthy. Still, it surprised me when, on Saturday, Feb. 26th, 2011, as I was listening to former Buffalo Bills Quarterback, Jim Kelly and his wife, Jill, speak at my church that the last of the pieces suddenly dropped into place and I understood. I don't have all the answers in this life and I won't. But God does. W hen I put my faith in Him and trust that He will see me through whatever life has in store, remarkable things happen. My life changes. The lives around me change. Each time I have honestly put my faith in God to find a solution, He has done amazing things and granted more than I ever hoped for.

Hunting God is a great adventure. ~Marie DeFloris

So I prayed sincerely (not half-heartedly as I had a couple of times before) for Jesus to come into my heart and life and change me. I asked Him to forgive me and take this life, make it into whatever He wants it to be. I had never been more serious or exhilarated. I felt thrilled and also a little dumb-founded. Here I was, a former atheist, a person who used to think people of faith were weak and deluded but now I was purposefully--gladly--handing over the direction of my life to something so much greater than myself. How's that for a surprise ending?

Of course, it isn't the end. It's just the beginning of a new life, a whole new way of being. For the first time in my life, watching the sun go down doesn't make me sad, thinking about another day being gone and wondering how many more I have left. I don't fear loneliness or worry about how I will handle the next tragedy when it arises. I don't wonder anymore if my existence is meaningless or purposeless. I no longer despair, trying to beat back the choking fear that this life is all there is. But more than that, I know I am LOVED. Precious & treasured.

And you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. ~John 8:32

For me it was true, dear Reader. At some point if you seek, you will find. God Bless and Keep You.

Faith is reason grown courageous. ~Sherwood Eddy

Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path. ~Psalms 119:105

The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. ~I Corinthians 15:26

Quotes courtesy of The Quote Garden.

Snowpacalypse Feb. 1st, 2011

What I learned today: Ask God for opportunities to improve yourself and He provides.

Here I sit, Reader, tucked into a warm bed and typing away on my new laptop (an incredible Christmas gift from my family). Meanwhile, the worst winter storm in over 40 years is raging outside with 60 mph wind gusts and blowing snow coming down at the rate of about 2-4 inches per hour. Though I was able to leave work early today due to the impending weather, it still took me almost 3 hours to get home. Isn't it funny how all our technological whiz-stuff makes us feel all smart and superior? At least until uncontrollable natural events disrupt everything and rake havoc with our tidy, time-tabled lives.

Ah-ha! But, you see, now is not the time for petty frustration and the grumpy rolling of eyes. For here, God has provided me with an opportunity to practice my word: relinquish. I had the chance to relinquish all control of the situation, my timetable and even my apprehension about driving in bad weather (stemming from my recent auto misfortunes). I took a few deep breaths, stilled my panicky thoughts (what if I get stuck somewhere?) and prayed about it. I prayed for a calm heart and to accept that I am not really in control of what happens next. I gave it over to God, knowing that whatever happened on my drive home, it is part of God's plan and He would be there with me.

Several times I had to mentally stomp on the fear that threatened to spill over at every weather report and dire storm warning, but once I got behind the wheel, I felt a strange sort of working-peace descend over me--my head was clear, my reflexes ready (if need be), but I wasn't panicked or dreading the extended drive. Well, I made it home safe and unruffled. Check off one well-used opportunity to practice my word. I can't wait to see how focusing on these little challenges will shape my character. Can already feel myself stretching in positive ways.

Today's Joy: Getting A Raise.
I was hard at work this morning, Reader, when my boss called to tell me they are changing the title of my fledgling position from Data Entry Clerk to POS Coordinator--and I'm getting a pay raise. Woo-hoo! This position has been such a blessing! Have only been with the company for a little over two months (just started full-time a couple weeks ago) and now I'm getting a nice-sized raise.

"Christmas comes early!" My boss joked. It's really wonderful to be surrounded by great people in such a supportive environment. I've never enjoyed a job as much as I do this one.

Of course, I have God to thank entirely. It was His voice I felt nudging me to look online at a particular website within hours of this job being posted there. It was His guidance I listened for during both my interviews and His will working through others that created such a great opportunity for me. I have prayed often for guidance on how to do this job to the best of my ability. And it's through Him that more incredible things continue to happen.

He has become more real to me through this process than at any other time in my life. I feel as if I can take risks and put all of myself out there in this situation because I know, whatever happens, God is there and He's guiding me. Being afraid is suddenly and simply irrelevant. As far as 'AHA' Moments go, this one's a doozy.

Verigated Leaves

Today's Joy: Hard Work Paying Off.

Well, Reader. Today marks the end of Week 2 of my No Grumbling, No Complaining Challenge. In some ways it was harder than Week 1. But I'm grateful for the test of my resolve. The more of a habit it becomes, the easier it will be to stay aware of how my words and actions impact others. I already feel so much more positive and proud of myself for finding opportunities to lift others up, rather than lament the things that aren't perfect in my life.

Today was also my last day of farm-sitting. My cat will be very glad to see I'm actually sleeping at home tonight. It will also be nice to sleep in my own bed. That being said, I really came to enjoy doing chores every day. Taking care of the critters and cleaning stalls became a familiar rhythm. It even turned into time spent with God, once I found the barn radio and got it tuned in to K-Love.

I love infusing God into little moments during the day. After all, He wants a living relationship with us. That means going beyond attending Sunday service and prayers before bedtime. It means sharing our thoughts and concerns, joys and disappointments with Him as we go about our day. It means being focused on that love throughout the day--and how we can demonstrate it. What a difference it makes when all of your actions originate from a place of peace and fulfillment. Makes life a lot less frustrating too. Give it a try, Reader. See how an attitude of loving compassion changes your interactions with people this week. You might be surprised...

Golden Spiria

Today's Joy: Doing Good Things For Others.

I love it, Reader, when the lessons we learn at church on Sunday morning about God and giving and loving one another spill over into the rest of the day. Today's message was the third installment of Dave Ramsey's video series on biblical finance. It was about giving and the power inherent in wise & thoughtful stewardship of the resources God has placed in our care.

The gist is this: no matter how you slice it, everything belongs to God. The earth, the animals, us, all of our talents and resources--we don't truly own any of it. Everything we have is on loan from God. He has lent us gifts, skills, funds and the breath in our bodies to complete his work. So, in not managing our money and resources properly, we are, in essence, misusing what God has provided. We are not being good stewards.

That is powerful stuff. If it all belongs to God, who are we to deny giving? Who are we to choose not to help others--when He has clearly given us the means to do so? And how could we ever manage His resources effectively if every month we have to choose between paying bills or feeding our families? I keep thinking about the difference I could make in the lives around me if only I didn't have debt hanging over my head. Oh, the ways I could serve if I weren't living paycheck to paycheck!

I left the service this morning and went directly to Mom's house to help her remove the ancient evergreen bushes from her front yard. After attempting to pull them out via truck-power, we resorted to sawing off the limbs and then digging out the stumps. God took pity on our poor, out-of-shape bodies and sent us Joel, the neighbor across the street. A stone mason and very kind soul, he spent the rest of the morning helping us dig out all 9 thick-rooted bushes. In return, he asked only that we help if he ever has a project that needs doing. Tomorrow, I will also bake him some cookies.

It was so inspiring to see this man out there in the sun, sweating and wrestling those bushes out of the ground for people he doesn't even know. What a blessing he was to us.

In the afternoon, we took all the project refuse out to the burn pile at our family farm. While there, I helped Aunt Chef prep some window boxes for her lovely flowers. The family seemed tired from working on the farm all day so I also volunteered to make dinner for everyone. Whipped up grilled chicken with a special marinade and my favorite homemade mac & cheese. It was a simple way to give and gave me great pleasure in the process.

Today was full of hard work, sunburn and big revelations. I wouldn't have missed it for anything. Hope this gets your neurons firing, Reader. How can you be a better steward of the gifts and assets that God has provided in your life? What could you do if you weren't hampered by financial constraints?

Aunt's incomparable Aurora Blue delphiniums.

Today's Joy: Those Things God Provides.
Uh-oh, Reader. Woke up this morning with all the classic symptoms of a UTI. I began to panic a tad when I thought about the bills coming due this week and now an added health expenditure. Opened my mouth to complain, but then remembered my week-long No Grumbling, No Complaining Challenge and held my tongue.

Aunt said,"Maybe it's a test." I suspected she was right, so instead of being afraid & whining about bad timing, I told God I knew he had this covered and I would wait for the solution to present itself. Then I called Mom, who works in the healthcare industry, for some advice. Long story short, that call led to an inexpensive physician-approved solution. Hurray! Thanks to Mom & God for taking good care of me.

This got me thinking about all the ways God provides for us each day that we take for granted. When I get in my truck each morning to go to work, I turn the key in the ignition and expect my vehicle to work. An hour before that, I turn on the faucet and get in the shower, expecting hot, running water. 20 minutes before that, I put a mug of cold water in the microwave and expect I will get hot water for my coffee. And every night, I go to bed taking for granted that I'll wake up the next morning. I have hundreds of expectations like this throughout the day. And if just one of them doesn't happen, it can throw the whole day out of whack. How utterly my daily life depends on God! Without Him, nothing would work or even exist at all.

Sometimes it's good just to keep that in mind, when the day runs smoothly and I'm still peeved about some little insignificant problem. After all, if it's important, He's gonna fix it. And if He doesn't, it's probably not that big a deal, anyway.


Delphiniums are huge this year!



Blossom Detail.

Stepping out into Aunt's garden reminds me of something else He provides: all the beauty in our daily lives. All those deep sighs of contentment--whether they happen when you get home from a long day at work, or when you take time out of your day to stop and have lunch by a pond, or when you step out of your house and feel blessed to be surrounded by so many gorgeous living things. Of course, there's also those 2 and four-legged beings moving around your life. They may not always be pretty, but they are beautiful.

Go forth this weekend, Reader, and take a moment to look around your life at all we take for granted. Say a little thank you for all those blessings. I'll be right there with you.


Stalks are over 4 feet tall!

Cozy coral roses.

Yellow Lilies at Sundown.

My Garden O' Galoshes, May, 2010.

Today's Joy: Watching Things Grow.

A crazy, hectic day, Reader. Came home from work and dove right into helping the family get ready for their big day at the St. James Farm Forest Preserve Homecoming Celebration tomorrow. With the announcer's script written and emailed, a fab gourmet lunch packed for tomorrow and my camera gear ready to catch them in all their show-fabulousness, it's nearly midnight and I am pooped!

Realized I forgot to water my flowers this morning, so I popped outside to check. Sure enough, they're a little dry. Will remember to water them extra well tomorrow. They sure are growing well though, and bursting with vivid blossoms. Hard to believe they've grown so much in less than a week! Isn't it amazing how life continues to work its little miracles every day?

When I think about all the energy in our bodies and how all the mysterious processes of life are constantly going on to keep us alive, upright and breathing, it really is mind-boggling. Especially when you multiple that by all the processes going on in the plants and animals around us--and around the world! What an awesome, complicated, well-orchestrated system of cycles and neurons firing...however God does it, it's a beautiful thing to behold.

Every happening, great and small, is a parable whereby God speaks to us, and the art of life is to get the message. ~ Malcolm Muggeridge

Today's Joy: Time Spent with God.
Had the day off today, Reader. I fell asleep last night after reading a few chapters of The Shack, by William P. Young. This is my second reading of this amazing book. So it felt only natural, upon waking this morning, to stretch luxuriously in bed and then pick up right where I left off. I read for a bit, absorbed some more deep and wonderful ideas and then got about starting my day.

After attending to the daily duties of living, I found myself drawn back to the book in the afternoon. So, I read some more. And passages that hadn't resonated with me during my first reading popped up like beacons of understanding this time around. There are several questions I've been pondering in regard to faith. Questions that my readings & discussions with spiritual advisors have not entirely answered. I'm sure you have a few such quandaries yourself, Reader. So, you will understand when I say that I really struggle with some of these faith roadblocks.

Mostly, they have to do with the rules of written teachings feeling incongruous with what I know in my heart about God & love.

In The Shack, Sarayu (my favorite character) advises, Don't look for rules and principles. Look for relationship--a way of coming to be with us. She further refers to responsibilities and expectations as subtle forms of these rules--words that were once live verbs (response & expectancy) but which we humans have turned into dead nouns. In essence, routines, rituals & obligations, which take away from our live relationship with God.

God is a verb, not a noun proper or improper. ~ R. Buckminster Fuller, No More Secondhand God, 1963

In The Shack, over and over, Papa, Jesus & Sarayu (the three faces of God in the book) all reiterate that they want to be in relationship with us. They want to live inside us, to be a part of everything we do--not just a chore to be completed on our daily to-do list (did the dishes, picked up the kids, prayed to God, etc).

When I think of the healthy relationships around me, I know a hint of that togetherness & acceptance. That understanding that no matter what your flaws, someone loves you unconditionally. Of course, with God, it's on a scale more infinite than anything I can imagine. But I see snippets of His love in my love for others and in the way they love me. God is the ultimate form of that--more than I can comprehend and more than I'll ever need. I like the idea that he's there with me every moment, seeing all that I do, celebrating triumphs & drawing close in times of sorrow.

The feeling remains that God is on the journey, too. ~Teresa of Avila

I love too, that he has extended this offer of relationship to everyone, regardless of race, color, belief or persuasion. He longs for fellowship with each of us. He is "especially fond" of all his children, whatever their circumstance, wherever they have been. He always offers them the chance to come to him in fellowship. As I progress in my own faith & relationship with Him, I can't imagine life any other way. Tonight, I can't wait to return to my book and see what other revelations I will find. What an amazing journey! Dear Reader, I hope my little musing gets you thinking--maybe even curious enough to pick up Mr. Young's book, or better yet, God's. Or, hit your knees and talk to the Man, Himself. I'm sure he'd love to hear from you. More revelations to come!

People see God every day, they just don't recognize him. ~Pearl Bailey


Quotes courtesy of The Quote Garden.

Sedona Rose

“I want creation to penetrate you with so much admiration that wherever you go, the least plant may bring you the clear remembrance of the Creator. …One blade of grass or one speck of dust is enough to occupy your entire mind in beholding the art with which it has been made." ~ St. Basil the Great (329-379)


Today's Joy: The Amazing Variety in God's Creation.
While going thru the photos I took when Mom & I were out exploring area garden centers this past weekend, I found a bunch I wanted to share with you, Reader. These were taken at either The Planter's Palette in Winfield, IL or at Heinz Bros. Greenhouse in St. Charles.

There are some real beauties and an incredible variety of shapes, textures and hues. We had such a wonderful time marveling over plants and clever landscaping. Looking at the images I captured with my camera, I feel blessed to be surrounded by such beauty. It also reminds me that our trivial, human attempts at dabbling in hybridization don't even begin to scratch the surface of what God is capable of creating. A sobering thought.

“Love all of God's creation, the whole of it and every grain of sand. Love every leaf, every ray of God's light! Love the animals, love the plants, love everything. If you love everything, you will soon perceive the divine mystery in things. Once you perceive it, you will begin to comprehend it better every day. And you will come at last to love the whole world with an all-embracing love.” ~ Fydor Doestoyevski (1821-1881)

Of course, Doestoyevski is right. In the end, it's all about love anyway. God's love for us. God's love for Creation. God's wish for us to love each other as He loves us. That love includes stewardship of all the amazing, breathing beings around us. Two-legged, four-legged, six or eight-legged, even millipedes! And those beings that have no legs at all.

All are part of that great something we all long to touch. Funny, isn't it, how we spend our lives searching for the one thing that will fulfill us, only to find out we had it within us all the time. Actually, we're made of it. How's that for tangible love?

“Earth is crammed with heaven
And every bush aflame with God
But only those who see take off their shoes.”
~ Elizabeth Barrett Browning


If Chunk Were Made Of Stone...


Mom surrounded by hanging baskets, The Planter's Palette


Fairy Garden in Wheelbarrow, The Planter's Palette



Ornamental Kale (?)

Gerbera Daisy

Rose

Love & Peace Rose

Sedona Rose

Rose

Rose

Marigolds

Ornamental Onion

Perennial Cornflower

Peony

A swirly whats-it that caught my eye...

The Planter's Palette

Red Velvet Rose, Heinz Bros. Greenhouse

Rose

Rose, Heinz Bros. Greenhouse

Rose

Rose

Poppy, Heinz Bros. Greenhouse

Columbine

Cherub

Creation Quotes courtesy of Climbing For Christ.

Today's Joy: Heeding Your Calling.
Reader, I need your help. For almost 2 years now, God has been nudging me to use my photography skills to help in the community. Specifically, I'm feeling called to take children's & family portraits for families that cannot afford them. I even know what this endeavor is supposed to be called: The Love Likeness Project.

God has put it in my heart to reach out to underprivileged families--especially those with small children. They grow up so quickly and family portraits seem very far out of reach when you're struggling just to put food on the table. I'm blessed with a wonderful gift and it would be so fulfilling to capture those images of childhood & family life while serving others. Since 2008, I've made a few half-hearted attempts to bring this dream to fruition. I've contacted a few churches in search of families who might need photos. I've even tried posting an ad on Craig's List, but received no response.

These last few months, I can feel God urging me a little more insistently to move forward. So, now I'm coming to you. If you have any Chicago-area ministry contacts or helpful suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated. I know of no one else who is doing this. It's all uncharted territory with infinite room for possibilities!

I can't help but feel with the poor economy, so many families out of work and others facing the possible loss of their homes, that it is vital for the rest of us to do whatever we can to help ease the burden on these families. And bring them some joy. Whether it's through a camera lens or countless other small ways, the example we set will teach them about love and God.

Thank you for listening. Suggestions and ideas can be emailed to me at lovelikenessproject@gmail.com. God Bless!

Today's Joy: Fortuitous Meetings.
I took a risk today, Reader. I applied to a juried art/craft show slotted for later this summer. Juried means that a committee of the show organizers reviews all the artists who'd like to participate and decides which ones will be invited to exhibit their work. Juried shows are usually a more organized and more lucrative venue for artists than the average festival. There's also the opportunity to win prizes for your work.

Well, I prayed about it and ruminated on it and when I felt God urging me to give it a shot, I decided it was time to throw my hat in the ring. I put together my application with samples of my work (am still so proud of my little darlings) and today I hand-delivered it to the submission address. I got there later than I planned--a few unexpected errands popped up--and the mail slot was too small for my envelope, so I rang the bell and a woman came to the door. Turns out, she's the submissions contact and a lovely woman. So, I introduced myself and we chatted a bit. She seemed really excited to peek at my application so I thanked her and ski-dattled. Hopefully I made a good impression.

Looking back on it now, the timing was very fortuitous. I know in my heart that God wanted me there at that time for a reason, and this meeting was somehow significant. It had that 'stardust feel' to it. You know what I mean--that feeling of foreshadowing you get when you meet someone new or visit some place for the first time and you just know it will be significant in the future. Like déjà vu, only it hasn't happened yet. Or like God offering you a sneak peek. A holy spirit preview, if you will.

I've gotten that feeling several times in my life, each time leading to something wonderful. So, I'm hopeful. When was the last time you had a 'stardust feeling', Reader? Did you shake it off or embrace it? What was the outcome?

Today's Joy: Observation, Physical Form & Appreciation

Spoke to a good friend via Facebook this morning, Reader, and we both savored having a little unhurried time to just enjoy the day. God does such great work that it really is a shame to not look around us and observe the fine points & minute details of His creation.

Look at this wildflower, for example. Look at those cute little curly things in the middle. See how the edges of the petals look like they've been clipped by pinking shears? True, I don't know the technical names of the flower parts. I don't have any botany facts to back up my observations. But I do know when I see a little miracle of creation in front of me. What a beautiful form for reproduction to take! Of course, you'd never see the intricacies or appreciate the complicated design of such a thing if you didn't put down your cellphone or laptop or tear yourself away from a meaningful discussion with the GPS to notice the physical world around you.

In 2010 it is very possible to spend the majority of your day effectively living in your head and not engaging the world around you at all. But if you're like me, Reader, something inside you becomes uneasy when you realize the day has gone by and hours of physical sensation have become a blur. I believe God wants us to live spiritually, to reach beyond our physical limitations. But he also gave us these physical bodies, the ability to analyze & appreciate and all these amazing sensations for a reason. What a waste to leave your body effectively "parked" at a work station for hours while your mind is off tripping through cyberspace or daydreams.

Flesh & blood vessels are not designed to be docked like an Ipod. We are designed to interact and be vital. We're designed to love and learn and touch everything around us with an insatiable curiosity to know. We are capable of so much more than sitting and staring while our neurons fire and we play out some alternate existence on a flat screen.

There is a synergy, a compilation in creation that melds our physicality with the power of our thoughts. I suspect that partnership is our true medium. And I bet that's the experience God wants us to have. A balance between all that freaky mental energy rolling around in our heads and the amazing capability for expression in our physical form. It really is mind-boggling.

Long story short: take out your earbuds for a moment, Reader. Pull your hands off the keyboard. Turn off the blue tooth for just a few moments and take a deep breath. Close your eyes and listen to the environment around you. Listen to what you were oblivious to a moment ago. Listen to your own heart beat. Then open your eyes and look around.

What do you see?

Today's Joy: Little Signs.
Reader, when God really wants to get through to me about something, he gets on the radio. I love to sing in the truck & always have music on while I'm driving. It's my traveling sanctuary--a place I can think on problems and ruminate about life. So, it makes perfect sense that God often speaks to me through timely songs, lyrics & commentary when I really need encouragement. It's kinda nice too--like having your finger on the pulse of the universe. Anyway, I was wrestling with a particular question today and He sent me direction through one much-needed song, then another (just in case I didn't get the point). I love that He has a back-up plan. And I love His sense of humor.

He sent me another message today too. In this glorious spring season, I admit I've been feeling the recent loss of love pretty keenly. Seems especially hard when everything around me is growing or being renewed. But hope arrived today in the form of an attractive Nigerian man who came into my store and asked for my number. I turned him down--am not ready to think about dating right now. But His message was clear. I won't have a broken heart forever. And that small comfort is all I need. Whatever you're wrestling with, Reader, may God bring you some peace today too.

God is closest to those with broken hearts. ~ Jewish Saying

Giving up doesn't always mean you are weak; sometimes it means that you are strong enough to let go. ~Author Unknown

Quotes courtesy of The Quote Garden.

Photo: April Daisies, Platt Hill Nursery, Carpentersville, IL.