Northeast Peace

With so much sadness and hardship in our beautiful country right now, I thought I’d pause to share peace from a little trip I made northeast.

No, precious strugglers…I haven’t forgotten you. I can only imagine the devastation…

Two years ago, almost to the day, I was shoveling wet insulation, soaked drywall, ruined books and belongings.

Hurricane Ian destroyed my home.

I tossed my possessions out the window into dumping bags below.

I was trying to dry rescued photos. I was pretending I didn’t see the mold.

I was scooping asphalt shingles and dodging scorpions.

My experience was bad, but I understand everyone’s tragedy is equally personal and cutting.

I can’t know what you’re going through.

I pray for you. I donate to help you.

In this little space I share photos and verses to rest in.

I’m just another grandma human trying to help however I can.

Take care, my loves.

God will get you through.

Your next steps will look different…but there’s still beauty…

…and God’s love.

Here are my little adventures and verses:

It seems odd. I drove to the airport in the dense darkness of 4 am. 

My flight came next. – One layover. (There always is.)

I stepped off my second plane six hours later. A bright sunshine with a bit of cool nip dazzled my face.  

Even though I walk through the darkest valley,

I will fear no evil, for You are with me;

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

As the car drove toward the broad expanse of mountains, colors changed.

Suddenly maples exploded red against a sharp blue sky.

Oak orange burned the cotton tips of billowing  white clouds.

Leaves slept in ditches next to forests which rained with the fluttering confetti of Fall.

Languid streams wound through meadows of golden grass. When their shallows met the hillsides,  they sent shocking bright sparklers of waterfalls over purple boulders. 

Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you,

He will never let the righteous be shaken.

New time. New place.

Suddenly Fall.

We wore sweaters.

We kicked leaves.

Mittens even came out on my last day.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened

and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you

and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart

and you will find rest for your souls.

For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

This slice of  Northeast was nestled in Fall.

Colorful joy was everywhere.

What beautiful splendor!

You have turned for me my mourning into dancing,

you have loosed my sackcloth

and clothed me with gladness.

Thanks, God,

for this Northeast Peace.