Lately, I have noticed that it's the little things... they can make me laugh or cry. I know I'm not alone in this roller coaster, stay-at-home world. Every day, I have been trying to find something that helps me express gratitude to God. And I've discovered that the little things really do add up.
For instance, I have had time to get a little more serious about the gardens this year. I was not the gardener in the family – I used to say that I didn’t have the creative eye, but I was the cheap labour – so, I didn't get too crazy with my plans. From among the perennials I pulled out an invasive ground cover and planted a mixture of wildflower seeds. And I am ridiculously excited. The package promises “exceptional colours” from flowers like alyssum (tiny white blooms), Siberian Wall flower (mid height bright yellow), mountain garland (3’ tall and bright pink), and 13 others.
I realized as I planted seeds that what I was experiencing was hope. I had something to look forward to, even though I know there are no guarantees. I had a momentary distraction from the corona virus, technology challenges, and hand sanitizing.
I know that I will deal with insects, rodents, weeds, and, this morning, snow until my garden grows. But for the moment, I have hope in the work of sun and rain and the coming summer. For the moment, I feel hope. It’s the little things…
Holy One, Creator and Gardener of my soul, thank you for the little things that remind me of your faithfulness. The turn of the seasons with a fresh spring morning and birdsong. The warmth of the sun as it moves closer to the summer solstice. I delight in the beauty of your Creation, and the tender ways you are with me. And Lord, may the harvest of hope I cultivate today bring joy to my heart and others, too. Amen.
Kathi