I really appreciate the phrases about nature that you point out, Doug. Nature can be so calming.

Thank you, Frederique. I heard a pastor once say that the only time the apostle Peter opened his mouth was to change feet, so I guess I'm in good company. Your kind words mean a lot! ❤️

Frederique and Lois, you are both giving me good reminders to cherish time to rest. Thank you!

Oh, Lois, my heart goes out to you! You are certainly in a liminal space with your heart between this fleshly world and that of the world beyond. I hope you can feel the hug I'm sending your way. 💔❤️

I agree with you, Gina--on all counts! I wouldn't want to miss our church service on a Sunday . . . but I could watch it later online. Do I have the gumption to visit elsewhere, especially someplace that holds different values than mine? Hmmm . . .

Yes, I can see your name--and your photo--now, my friend!

You must be Frederique! What a glorious way to start each day that must have been! So invigorating and inspiring--Wow! I appreciate your sharing that image with us.

That's lovely, Gina. I think the act of listening is so important, yet so often underrated.

What shocking information! Thank you for sharing so that we are all better informed. What can we do to work toward rectifying this situation?

That's a really good question, Gina. I like to think that violence is never the right choice, but I have learned that ideas that use words like never are often inaccurate. Perhaps someone with a deeper understanding can weigh in on this.

I find that I expect many of my support systems to be there for me, but I am not always consciously appreciative of them. Your comment makes me think about being more intentional about "breathing" some appreciation toward others, such as the local library staff, the trash collectors, the person who checks us in at the doctor's office. What a gracious manner of living it would be if others are always happy to see us because of how we treat them--with God's love. By the way, Pastor Jason, I appreciate YOU!

What a considerate way to learn a new perspective! I'm a little surprised the boys did not share their reasons with you, but maybe they wanted to keep that private. Thanks for sharing that experience, Sandy--it's very meaningful to me.

We feel so similarly in this, Gina!

What a beautiful image and construction, Sandy!

Thank you for sharing those thoughts, JulieAnn. I've never thought of letting go as "emptying" so that God can fill me, but I find that perspective helpful.

I was also blessed with a wise father. He gave me a great foundation in many areas.

How lovely! You make me wish I could be there in person!

Sometimes that "deep breath" is almost like a sigh of relief when we let go of some of the cultural expectations. I think the refocus on the spiritual aspect of the season pleases Jesus.

Thank you for sharing that tender memory, Andy. Your comment reminds me that compassion can be communicated through tears.

I find your thoughts so validating, Frederique! Once, I found a teacher colleague, waiting in the hallway for her next classroom to open. Tears were streaming down her face, and there were only a couple of minutes before students would crowd the hallways--not enough time to converse deeply. I came to her side and stood next to her, facing in the same direction as she was, and I took her hand, which she clasped. We stood there together until the rustle of students was heard. No words were exchanged--then or later--about the shared moment, but I always felt that we had experienced something special, connective and spiritual. I know it was special for me; I hope she felt my love, concern, and support.