Father of Grace

On Father's Day I am reminded, of course, of the joy my earthly father brought me while he was living--for the 26 years I knew him. He was truly a unique soul and brought joy to those near him. His legacy will surely continue, and I will never stop loving him.

But this Father's Day I am even more impressed by the love of my great Father in Heaven. In the past few weeks I have been meditating on Psalm 34 and Psalm 103 and am ever reminded that only He redeems me. Earthly fathers can bring us joy and happiness; they can bestow many gifts upon us; they can care for us and love us--but only our Father can heal us; save us; and give us the eternal gift of life. I am so thankful this day for my Father who redirected me from the path I deserved and brought me to this life. I am thankful that He never stops working for my benefit, and that He satisfies all my desires. I am thankful for His ceaseless compassion and perfect grace.

The Great Outdoors

This weekend I went on a camping trip with my church--about 20 of us. It was exactly what I needed after a long week at work. (Note: Paul "doesn't camp," so I was solo.) We lounged by the campfire, hiked a woodsy trail, played frisbee on the beach (and glimpsed some seals diving near shore!), enjoyed a soft-serve ice cream cone, grilled up burgers, sat around the campfire some more, had a s'more-making contest (I like to think I won the prize for "gluttonous"), and *tried* to sleep in the great outdoors. A crow woke me up from the half-hour of sleep I got at 4:47am and that was it for the night.

Living in the city I am so far removed from the things of nature--and my soul was really craving it. Just driving down to the Cape provided the first dose of relaxation I needed. The turns and curves and the fresh sea air were calming. Walking through the woods and running on the sand were soul-satisfying in a way I don't often get in the city. Enjoying time with people--both nourishing older friendships and starting new ones--I was instantly energized. Even after a restless night, I feel ready for another week in the city, but now I am longing to return to nature sooner than I had planned.

Wish You Were Here

If you were here
you'd know we're doing well
and things have changed in four years
but not too much

If you were here
you'd see her garden in full bloom
like it was that year
full of life like it was back then
it keeps on blooming

If you were here
you'd have more little ones than you did back then
two you never even got to meet
they can throw footballs now
and talk back to you, just what you were waiting for

If you were here
you'd know that lucy said
"when he's not sick anymore,
can he come be my grandpa?"
just yesterday

If you were here
you'd get to know my husband
like you never did
and you would know why i love him
so very much

If you were here
you'd know we're still pulling for cancer
riding again this year, and raising so much
you were so proud of that
back then

If you were here
we would make you the most delicious top hat
you've ever tasted in your life
(maybe not as good as yours)
if you came to visit boston

If you were here
we wouldn't have to miss you
but we miss you so much
and we wish you were here
today