07 November, 2017

An Expression Of A Deeper Order

Since my last post here, life consisted of, what I thought to be, a long string of events (random or otherwise). I struggled to keep up, it seemed as though I was hopscotching on one foot from one square to the next and barely keeping myself upright as I was doing it. There were momentary respites, here and there, exceedingly brief and all too fleeting. "Breathe", I kept reminding myself, "just breathe". I have been wearing many hats: wife, mother, grandmother, daughter-- all at the same time. In the course of the last four weeks we sold my in-law's home, said good-bye to our son's precious canine companion: Diesel, hosted my parents for a two week visit, kept our two youngest grandchildren during our daughter-in-law's scheduled surgery and recuperation, transported little ones to and from their designated schools and activities, celebrated our next to youngest grandchild's seventh(!) birthday and through it all endeavored to keep up with laundry, get meals on the table, and maintain a house that was, somewhat, clean and tidy. All of a sudden, it seems, life has slowed back down and a quick glance out the window reveals that the seasons have changed during all of the hub-bub of activity. Yes, through it all God has been there; strengthening, supporting and  revealing Himself in the most glorious way. This, from a Bible Study I am preparing for today: "we have talked about marriage and family as a vocation or calling from God. This calling is lived out within the struggles and trials of life in this world as God gives us to others as people to count on and receive help from." Today, my husband is spending his time at home doing all of those long postponed projects now that we have only one house again, our son and his family have begun to heal the hole in their hearts by welcoming a new furry friend into their lives and home, family relationships have been strengthened and fortified while making memories through time spent together and, our daughter-in-law is resuming her normal activities once again and daily life is settling back into a familiar rhythm; all while bathed in the resplendent golden glow of autumn (lest I forget who's been in control all along)! 
Thanks be to God!
Life is Good!

photo credit: Bill Voigt 
quote credit: Mary Alice Monroe, from The Butterfly's Daughter

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

Life does get complicated at times. It's always best when you see "the big picture" and turn it all over to the One who can lead you through. Sounds as if you worked through all your responsibilities in good order with the the right support. :-) Blessings all around!!!

Quiltdivajulie said...

Hugs to you and your family - and thank you for being such a blessing for all of us.

Janet O. said...

Having had a rather similar Fall season, in the sense of much going on in the way of family health issues, life changes, and extended visits of family members, I read your post with very familiar feelings as to what you went through.
As you said, though the respites were few and fleeting, I could see God's sustaining strength and love in my life.
You always put things in proper perspective and say it so beautifully. Thank you for sharing this today. :)

rondiquilts said...

This post spoke to me personally today. Thank you for that. I needed this.

Rondi

jude's page said...

I can identify with all of that, with so much happening in the last few months, and hoping i was heading into an easier time, only to have another "challenge" develop last week. So a timely reminder that I am not in control and to remember to trust and rest in Him. Thanks for your lovely words. I had missed your posts and was hoping you are well.

45th Parallel Quilter said...

I can most definitely relate to this. Lost my mom last May and while it has been six months it seems like yesterday at times. I have found myself at loose ends sometimes. When she was with us there were always doctor appointments, getting this for her, or that for her or just making sure she was settled and content ... it occupied a LOT of my time. I wasn't unhappy doing it but it always seemed like when I made plans they were turned upside down. An urgent call, a quick trip to the hospital, I was needed someplace else instead of where I had planned to be. Finally, I read something which gave me pause and jerked me back to "real time". It was simply "If you want to hear God's laugh, tell Him your plans." I know that sounds silly or to some stupid but it's what I tell myself when I would get frustrated at the constant changes and demands on my time. Now, when things unexpected come up I simply smile inside and say these words to myself ... If you want to hear God's laugh, tell Him your plan .....

Katy said...

I had missed your posts too. You have a special gift in writing what others are dealing with. You are needed and loved by many beautiful people. Keep inspiring us.

Little Penpen said...

This is a beautiful post. And yes we find that life continues, despite the things we are going through, and yes, God is in control the whole time. Blessings!!

cityquilter grace said...

full life plates always seem to overflow with God's goodness...

Lindah said...

You have been one busy lady. Isn't it wonderful to know/experience that all our business does not faze God? He remains sovereign, in control.

julieQ said...

I am so glad everything is slowing...and look what I good job you did in the whirlwind of life!!

Tanya said...

I'm sorry things have been in upheaval and especially sad to hear about Diesel. God always brings something good into the holes in our lives. And He puts us in our situations to be a blessing to others. You have become a great blessing to all around you.