At the time of writing this short note, in two days the New Year, 2021, will be here. The collard greens I grew this summer will be removed from the freezer on New Year’s Eve, and seasoned with great enthusiasm. The black- eyed peas will be soaked soon for Hoppin’ John, without the bacon, since I plan on using natural smoky flavors instead. The yearly rituals are in full swing in my simple home.
These and all these, are moments I look forward to every time the winter season sets in. I also begin then, the process of questioning my own intentions for the New Year. Goals for me, can never be created, unless I understand the deeper meaning of my intentions and how these intentions will filter into my life and the life of those I know. In gratitude, I stood still in the snow of this morning observing the tiny little footprints of the rabbits’ crossing, imprinted on my driveway. Their footprints are just as important as mine. But as much as I enjoyed viewing these tiny signs of God, I knew the shovel in my hand had to serve its purpose on this early morn.
The snow… fluffy and light, resembled the way my heart was feeling in the moment. With every lift of the shovel, and the vision of concrete beneath, I felt all the worries and concerns of the year immediately disappear. There are people I have not seen in many months, I thought of them. Those I want to text to say hello, but refrain from doing so based on my own quiet and careful characteristics. People I was starting to get to know seem to have just flowed right out of my life. I wondered if this departure was caused by me…or perhaps them? Are we just too busy? Did the growing friendships mean anything at all? These questions, I silently asked.
The 20 degrees outside, made me crave good seafood gumbo, but upon entering the kitchen, chose to make muesli instead. The warmth of this healthy choice, soothed my soul, which moved to my cold toes. I sat down and the furry companion that recently came to my home, wanted some too. She stared at me with such loving eyes. God’s love and His eyes!
“And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” (Hebrews 4:13)
Although God knows all of my within; personally, I still remember and I am thankful for:
- Snow to quench and cleanse the land
- The ability to see everything of God
- To see that of God in everyone
- To give thanks that my success was created on my own with His guidance alone
- To appreciate that my knowledge continues to grow
- To know my worth is dependent only on me and God’s perception of me
- Thankful that I do not take shortcuts to garner recognition and success
- Thankful to not ever feel threatened by the knowledge of others
- That I am courageous and speak up when injustices are delivered to me and to others. And, to do this even if these expressions make others uncomfortable
- For real friends that are in my life for who I am, and not for their own benefit
- To just say No to those who do not serve my higher good in the life God has created for me
- To remain in observance. To listen more, and to speak less
- For all these blessings and more…
My intentions through these bullet points, remain. I look forward to significant additions to this list. I’d say though that with this current one to guide me, the New Year could only offer a pleasant transition. First, I look forward to the meal I have been preparing for. I may just try to fit in a small pot of seafood gumbo too. Second, to safely visit with those I have not seen in a while. And third, to using my beautiful tea table even more. Awww! These special moments in a few days to come, in the New Year, and beyond. My account has been offered to Our Father. Lastly, I am so thankful He knows my heart…
Happy New Year!
Charlotte! ©