Thank you. I don't claim; to be a perfect example, of what I believe in. Or; that I have all the answers, for every life-situation. I do appreciate; how God has worked, in my life. The last few years anyway. ☺ But; Christians are still very human. At least, this one is.
As the midnight of my life draws nearer, I am constantly looking to fill my soul as well. And the harder I try the “worser” I get, for the most part. Connections to people are always something I look for, but I have discovered that the simple, unexpected things such as you describe in yet another beautifully written piece, often occur when I am surrounded by nature. The unexpected appearance of a hummingbird, magnificent storm clouds rolling in, driving through a canopied road, these are the “stuff” that bring fulness to my heart. Or just an unexpected hug or word of love from a grandchild or friend make me feel so complete. You have re-booted my outlook. I have so much gratitude for your magnificent artistry with words.
Another nice article. The last sentence - "... the illusion that staying full is the goal rather than staying open." - really rings true for me.
I'm following the disaster in Ukraine and I sometimes find it hard to stay open. I want to turn away but I just can't, even though the small slice of the suffering I'm aware of tries to drain me. How does one replenish one's soul? By pursuing what brings life and joy.
Someone once asked me how I could focus on my own needs when there's so much pain and cruelty in the world. The answer is that if I don't I'll have to shut down, and that's too great a cost.
So I hold myself gently when I see what's happening and know that compassion - for self as well as others - is the soul's true path.
Pardon me, if my perspective isn't welcome; but it seems to me, that there's "an elephant in the room".
In today's world, an increasing number of people are homeless; and don't have alot of choice, in what they eat or where they go. Even for those of us, with jobs; many people are working from pay-check to pay-check, without the time or energy or money to do things that are so every-day for the top 10% in of this planet's population.
We need a solution; that doesn't depend, on money or privilege. That works for; rural & urban, our friends in Ukraine & Poland (and Russia.), and those that are soon going to leave earth & time as we know it. What is on the other side of death ? How do you "fill the soul" of someone who has gone through extreme loss (wildfire burning your town, or tornado leveling your neighborhood) ?
The things you mentioned, are pleasant; but they can't take the place, of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I know; alot of people are disappointed by "church people" (My fellow church members, are disappointed in me too occasionally.); but I need them, more than they need me. There are good Biblical churches available. Find them.
Thank you. I don't claim; to be a perfect example, of what I believe in. Or; that I have all the answers, for every life-situation. I do appreciate; how God has worked, in my life. The last few years anyway. ☺ But; Christians are still very human. At least, this one is.
As the midnight of my life draws nearer, I am constantly looking to fill my soul as well. And the harder I try the “worser” I get, for the most part. Connections to people are always something I look for, but I have discovered that the simple, unexpected things such as you describe in yet another beautifully written piece, often occur when I am surrounded by nature. The unexpected appearance of a hummingbird, magnificent storm clouds rolling in, driving through a canopied road, these are the “stuff” that bring fulness to my heart. Or just an unexpected hug or word of love from a grandchild or friend make me feel so complete. You have re-booted my outlook. I have so much gratitude for your magnificent artistry with words.
Another nice article. The last sentence - "... the illusion that staying full is the goal rather than staying open." - really rings true for me.
I'm following the disaster in Ukraine and I sometimes find it hard to stay open. I want to turn away but I just can't, even though the small slice of the suffering I'm aware of tries to drain me. How does one replenish one's soul? By pursuing what brings life and joy.
Someone once asked me how I could focus on my own needs when there's so much pain and cruelty in the world. The answer is that if I don't I'll have to shut down, and that's too great a cost.
So I hold myself gently when I see what's happening and know that compassion - for self as well as others - is the soul's true path.
Re: Hardheaded - That was excellent advice, and an excellent way to give advise: with options explored!
Pardon me, if my perspective isn't welcome; but it seems to me, that there's "an elephant in the room".
In today's world, an increasing number of people are homeless; and don't have alot of choice, in what they eat or where they go. Even for those of us, with jobs; many people are working from pay-check to pay-check, without the time or energy or money to do things that are so every-day for the top 10% in of this planet's population.
We need a solution; that doesn't depend, on money or privilege. That works for; rural & urban, our friends in Ukraine & Poland (and Russia.), and those that are soon going to leave earth & time as we know it. What is on the other side of death ? How do you "fill the soul" of someone who has gone through extreme loss (wildfire burning your town, or tornado leveling your neighborhood) ?
The things you mentioned, are pleasant; but they can't take the place, of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I know; alot of people are disappointed by "church people" (My fellow church members, are disappointed in me too occasionally.); but I need them, more than they need me. There are good Biblical churches available. Find them.
I absolutely love your writing, thanks for this little treasure x
Love this! Simpler the better, I think.