Promise of Springtime. . .

Reflections ~ Arrangement by Chad Lawson 
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Old man winter just won’t give up!  For two wonderful days this past week, it seemed like we were just beginning to enjoy spring’s warmer temperatures, while watching the snow melt away.  Not only were the cardinals, chickadees and doves singing their glorious tunes among the sunny blue skies, but, finally, without further delay the promise of spring had arrived.  What a wonderful sight to see and to hear the rich, warbling chirp of our spring feathered friend, the robin, who joined this festive feathered choir!  The next day, however, winter came back with a vengeance.  

Consequently, I was knee-deep shovelling more snow again! Oh, how can this be? Will this winter season ever end? I cannot bear the thought of having to shovel the driveway one more time. I am exhausted and weary of this winter, yet, I persevere for I know the promise of springtime is just around the corner!  

When I finally went inside to warm up with a hot cup of tea, it made me ponder on the winter season of my own life.  Although there have been overcast days that have been unpredictable, harsh and arduous during my many months of recovery from surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, I could not help but think of the verse I continue to cling to when fear, self-doubt and insecurities try creeping into my life, “He giveth power to the faint; and those who have no might he increaseth strength” (Isaiah 40:29).  

Hence, as I reflect on this winter of my life, I am so very grateful that I, too, can see the promise of springtime!  During these long, grueling months, I thank God for the power He gave me to persevere when there were times I could barely endure another treatment as I was faint at heart, physically exhausted and spiritually weary.  As well, I thank God for the strength He gave me to be steadfast knowing these winter hardships in my life would only make me stronger mentally, physically, and spiritually. 

Just like the winter barren trees patiently wait for their new spring fashion of colour or the brown, dreary garden beds longingly wait for their soon to be covered joyous rainbow of spring flowers, so, too, is my life being renewed as I anticipate the promise of springtime.  Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation are now behind me.  With each new day I have been given, I see signs of the promise of springtime in my life! My energy level improves day-by-day as my appetite becomes healthier. I am now, finally, able to walk further on my daily walks, bit-by-bit, with my beloved dog, Jake.  My physical appearance is also slowly returning to normalcy as I watch my new soft salt and pepper head of hair grow in, or carefully apply mascara on my new set of eye lashes, while the arches on my brows fill in with colour. 

More importantly, I am cloaked with renewed confidence as I believe and trust God has a plan for my life when I read Hebrews 10:35-36. For it is only through His power and strength that I have the hope and confidence to persevere and endure all the winter seasons of my life.  As the seasons in my life continue to evolve, I have so much to be thankful for knowing God’s presence is with me each and every day, while His promise of springtime continues to flourish in my life with His everlasting blessings.

When you feel you can no longer cope,
remember God gently whispers,
“persevere, carry on, and never give up hope."
~ By Bonita ~

Simple Acts. . .

As the Deer ~ Arrangement by Berrymore84 (Piano Instrumental)
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As I continue on my road to recovery, I have been abundantly blessed by the simple kind acts of care and compassion by others.  I truly thank God for what I have been given and am overwhelmed with emotions of heartfelt gratitude. For as one quietly thinks of the grief they must bear, it is so easy to feel lost and think no one will care.  But I have learned that it is in our darkest hour of light that the stars of family and dear friendships are bright, as they come shining through by their simple acts of kindness that have such a deep impact. And so. . . a small thing that makes a big difference is. . .

SIMPLE ACTS

A gentle voice,

A tender touch,

A listening ear

Can mean so much.

An outstretched hand,

A warm embrace,

A glimpse of hope,

A smiling face.

A friendly word,

A thoughtful deed,

A prayer for those

Who are in need.

These are the gifts

I cherish dear,

To heal one’s heart

Or wipe a tear.

For only God

Can heal one’s heart,

Through simple acts

He doth impart.

~ By Bonita ~

“As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, O God.” 
Psalm 42:1