So Gather Up Your Jackets

And move it to the exits, I hope you have found a friend.

I am thankful for new years. Grateful for markers in time that signify the end of something and the start of something else. I am thankful that seasons of winter do not last forever. I am relieved that seasons of sorrow eventually and always give way to seasons of life, creativity, and beauty. This year has brought its share of sorrow and pangs of growth and change that I hope can only be followed by new life. This year has also been marked by the richness of friendships--those who have continued to walk with me, hope with me, and laugh with me.

So as Semisonic tells us....every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end.

Whatever this next year brings face it with courage, hope, and a good amount of humor.

As one little Hobbit reflected on the darkness of his journey, he offered this outlook -"there is light and beauty up there that no shadow can touch".

And I think Sam is right.   

of peace on earth and good will to men

 I am drawn to the Christmas songs that usher me into a place of reflection, remembrance, and waiting. The songs that echo a sentiment of longings still unfullfilled seem to be the only Christmas songs that reach my soul.
Ransoming the captives

A weary waiting world

Oppression ceasing

People waiting for chains to break

Songs that acknowldge the dark realities as well as the thrill of hope crashing in to awaken us from the despair of sleep.

I also am really taken by the words of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in the poem "Christmas Bells". Written in the midst of a flurry of national chaos and personal tragedy his words capture the paradox of this season-- of agony and triumph.

 And in despair I bowed my head;



"There is no peace on earth," I said;


"For hate is strong,


And mocks the song


Of peace on earth, good-will to men!"



Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:


"God is not dead; nor doth he sleep!


The Wrong shall fail,


The Right prevail,


With peace on earth, good-will to men!"


May this season be one of reflection spurring you to hope in the midst of waiting.

Check out two artists that inspired me to connect these thoughts....

Shellee Coley

Future of Forestry