Seasons

Living in Central Illinois all of the seasons bring forth their glories in unique and beautiful ways.  The seasons this year seem to be a little ahead of their time.  To say the season’s cold streak has made its way through the country a little early would be an understatement.  Some are not too thrilled with the sudden drop in temperatures.  However, I’m excited for the brisk winter air that has made its way to Chillicothe, Illinois.

Even the smallest of changes is appreciated.  The blast of cold, fresh air that smells of winter.  The stark colors of fall against the grays of a winter sky. The glitter of frost on the recently harvested fields.  The dazzling reflection of the winter sun upon the Illinois River.  The warmth of the sun’s rays through the back door.  The fluttering snowflakes which bring smiles and thoughts of Christmas.  All are marvelous.  All are inviting.

Every aspect of the changing seasons reminds me of God’s presence. Through all seasons of my life God has been ever present.  I may not have always recognized him and at times have distanced myself from his hand but he is ever present.  Just as he changes the landscape of Central Illinois through the seasons he changes me, if I allow him.

If I am willing to be molded and sculpted by the Master’s hand he will make my life into a beautiful landscape that reflects his glory.  There’s the rub. Am I malleable? Am I ready to lose my form and take on the form God sees in me? I pray I am.  I pray I willingly seek out God’s form for my life as easily as the seasons fade into one another.  I pray I appreciate even the smallest of changes.

Thankful

Hmm, for whatever reason this did not post all the way back in July!  It’s still important and I could not be any more proud of my brother so I’ll post it just a little late in the game.   

Summer truly starts for me the week of Fourth of July.  It’s truly not summer until I am able to place in our yard and gardens my small American flags and put some sort of decorations on the porch.

Our family has always placed high value on recognizing the reason we are able to celebrate Independence Day.  I am not sure how our family became so patriotic.  It might have something to do with family members having served in the military.  Or it might have to do with the love of history my mom has fostered in her children.  Or it could possibly be I know the Creator behind the true freedom I am able to experience every day.  Most likely it is a combination of all three.

This was the second Independence Day I celebrated without the presence of my youngest brother, Jeremiah.  Jeremiah is a United States Marine stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.  From the age of three Jeremiah has wanted to be a Marine.  Growing up watching war movies and seeing his hero, John Wayne, play the role of a United States Marine are probably a couple of the reasons he joined the Corps.  But the main catalyst behind his decision to choose the Marine Corps over the other branches, Semper Fidelis.  It translates as always faithful.  The Corps’ emphasis on honor, courage and commitment drew Jeremiah to the Marines.

Jeremiah possesses these traits.  Jeremiah is a Marine.

It is practically impossible for me to not cry when our National Anthem is sung.  It breaks my heart when I see men, women and children disrespect our flag and our Pledge by withholding their hands from their hearts.  I am baffled when natural born citizens cannot recite the words to The Star Spangled Banner or not stumble through the Pledge of Allegiance.

How did this happen?  How have we forgotten the human price that has been paid?  How have we forgotten the initial freedoms for which our ancestors fought? How have we become a nation that takes our freedoms for granted?

I have not forgot and will make sure to always remember. Thank you to the men and women who have served my country, are serving and will continue to serve no matter the cost.