plucking time

“Today one may pluck out one’s very heart and not find it.”
― Franz Kafka


(the first of the season / Julie Cook / 2017)

Simplistic seasonal changes give way to the reaping of small harvests…
As the western world reels from another chaotic and senseless attack.

Caustic comedians are wallowing in sanctimonious apologies
while casting wide nets of blame blanketing the very ones they mock.
As a fallen candidate joins the fray with the same empty mantra…
“Not my fault….”

Madness and hatred are the offerings on tap
while unsuspecting berries ripen on the bush

There’s an old nemesis who seems to be enjoying renewed friction
while the media and press proclaim the sky is falling.
As the dividing line between right and left becomes impossible to bridge.

There’s something comforting in the mindless gathering of ripening fruit
Something seemingly mundane yet blessedly sane…
as the world spins wildly out of control….

Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.
“Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.”
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord.
Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for
the hope that you have.
But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience,
so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ
may be ashamed of their slander.
For it is better, if it is God’s will,
to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

1 Peter 3:13-17

Eyes open

In these times you have to be an optimist to open your eyes when you awake in the morning.
Carl Sandburg

RSCN7507
(ghost crab, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida / Julie Cook / 2014)

When the morning sun peeks over the horizon
When you first open those sleepy little eyes
When you find yourself in that peaceful place between sleeping and waking
When everything about the newness of a day is still positive and bright

Rejoice

When you are greeted by those aches and pains upon rising
When you look in the mirror and regret what looks back
When you suddenly recall the traumas and dramas of your life
When you hear of the strife and agony throughout a perilous world

Rejoice

When the day has grown dark and shadows long
When you find yourself at the end of the day no better than the day before
When you stand on the losing side of the battle
When a heavy head yearns for a safe and gentle place to rest

Rejoice

Remember, to keep your heads held high
Always stand up straight, always full of purpose
Constantly move forward, even if it’s inch by inch
Always keep your eyes wide open . . .and remember. . .

Rejoice

The battle has been fought
The war has indeed been won
The Promise has long since been made
And the Glory is forever yours and mine

Rejoice

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10