The
book actually belongs to my sister, but here I sit reading it - years after I borrowed it.
I'm reading it slowly {which is very unusual for me} and I'm thinking a lot about one, simple paragraph.
A paragraph about winter approaching.
A paragraph about the leaves dropping and falling - exposing "one by one- all of the irregularities and defects of the trees."
A paragaraph about {real} condition.
....
And the part that I have re-read each morning this week is this:
"Winter preserves and strengthens a tree. Rather than expending its strength on the exterior surface, its sap is forced deeper and deeper into its interior depth. In winter, a tougher, more resilient life is firmly established. Winter is necessary for the tree to survive and flourish."
.......
Richard J. Foster also writes, "So often we hide our true condition with the surface virtues of pious activity, but, once the leaves of our frantic pace drop away, the transforming power of a wintry spirituality can have effect."
"To the outward eye everything looks barren and unsightly. Our many defects, flaws, weaknesses, and imperfections stand out in bold relief."
Did you read that part?
Bold relief.
Did you know that when you're real and exposed that you will feel relief? ... and not just a little relief, but BOLD relief?
........
I'm still thinking and re-reading because ... well ... I've always been a huge fan of spring blossoms, summer shade, and fall leaves ...
but recently I am beginning to see that the bare, winter limbs hold more beauty than anything else.
..............
It's funny how books we read seem to change everything.
Especially when they're the books we're meant to read.
