The Gentle Whisper

These past couple of weeks have been busy, but I'll save that for another post. No matter how hectic the schedule, I always try to spend some quiet time outdoors in the afternoon or evening. I know I've mentioned before that where we live is truly my sanctuary, and I never cease to be amazed at how my spirit just seems to settle when I'm cruising the ranch on my mule or just out piddling around in the yard.

For a number of years, Rick tried to convince me to move from town and build a house out here. It's only 9 miles out of town to the ranch, but my parents lived across the street from us and I felt that need to "be there for them" as they grew older. As Rick gently nudged me from time to time, I knew deep inside he was right...it was time to start the building process and get on with it. I would only be a 10 minute drive from my parent's house and my older brother was only 5 minutes away. But, I felt guilty even telling my parents we were going to start the process. As always, Mother was encouraging and all for us doing what we wanted to do. Daddy did his best to convince me I would hate it out here. I was "his girl" and as his health declined, he became quite dependent on me for security. I assured him daily that I would come into town to see him every single day and if he and mother should need me, I was only a phone call away. I did my best to reassure him that I would never neglect them. After we moved, Daddy would often ask me, "Now you tell me the truth. Do you really like living out there?" I always responded, "Daddy, I really do love it out there. But you know what I hate? I hate being away from you." I think that's all he needed to hear. Someday, when I'm able, I will share my story of losing both of my parents 17 months apart. It is still much too raw and personal to relive again, but there will be a time to share it - because God taught me so much about myself and about Him during that time.

For now, I just want you to see how and why this place provides so much peace for me. God is here. Don't ask me why I sense His presence so much more here than other places, but I am convinced that He provided this sanctuary for my sanity, my enjoyment and especially for my spiritual growth.

Enjoy the presence of God!

Magnificent Sunset

Fingers in the Sky Reflection Itsy Bitsy Spider Reflection in the Pond Dewy Surprise Hanging On Red Cluster Mrs. Killdeer Pretty LadiesIce Berries
Ice Magnolia Leaf
Stare Down With Mr. Toad
Mr. Toad Plays Dead
Praying Mantis in My Tomatoes

Until next time -

"The Lord said, 'Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.' Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper." 1Kings 19:11-12

"Be still and know that I am God". Psalm 46:10

* Sometimes we are not quiet or still enough to hear the gentle whisper.