Of Harvests and Barrenness

The colors are more vibrant, the look of the vegetables more striking, at this time of year. I love the challenge of figuring out new things to do with fall squash at the farmers' markets. (The photo comes from Alexas_Fotos at Pixabay.) But for me, there's still always a sadness. That burst of colors is prelude to barrenness.

It's been an intense year; so many friends and family members have lost parents, spouses, and children. As Christians, we believe in the hope of eternal life and pray that we will see those loved ones again. But we're human, and their loss is still hard. We wish we'd had one more hug, one more conversation, one more day. We feel as barren as the fields after the harvest.

I've been finding some comfort this fall in Galatians 4:10 (NRSVUE): You are observing special days and months and seasons and years. It reminds me to dwell a bit in the sadness of loss--but not so much that I lose track of all the joy around me. The harvest may be hard, but the fields of our hearts need never be barren.

What verse comforts you in times of loss? Please email me with the verse and the reason. I may publish some of them next month.

On the Nightstand: Wife, Mother & Mystic

Every saint's and saint-in-the-making's story has something to teach us. This month, I'm going to be delving into the life of Blessed Anna Maria. She was born in Siena, Italy, in 1769, and married shortly before she was twenty. It was not long after her marriage that she had her first encounter with Jesus. Many visions of the future followed, including prophecies of future events. She continued to live in the world, with her husband raising four children to adulthood. She died in 1837.

If you're interested in learning more about Anna Maria, check out the site for her canonization cause.

What's on your nightstand?

As of tomorrow, I have 37 work days till retirement from the day job. It's becoming really real! Besides making final touches to my financial plans, I'm thinking about what comes after: Sleep, for sure. Some volunteering. More family history research. A bit of travel. And, I'm sure God has plans I can't imagine just yet.

In the meantime this month, I'll be getting new professional photos taken, getting advice from recently retired friends, and exhibiting October 28 at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Organization of Catholic Women Christmas Bazaar in Winchester, VA. If you're in the Shenandoah Valley, I hope you'll stop by. Or, make a special trip--the valley is particularly lovely in the fall.

May your October be filled with bright blue skies and beautiful memories.

Blessings, Melanie