everythingIneedtoknowIlearnedina chickencoop;)

     I have learnt a few things from the chickens in our coop over the years; a chicken run and its citizens are a messy, muddy microcosm. Here is what I have discovered, in no particular order: Who's the boss? Well, size is not what counts, it's attitude. Our largest and oldest rooster is currently winding down his days in the chicken hospital/nursery/hospice. Always a gentle soul, he could quash any hen argument with a glance. That being said: Love your neighbour. Living close to anybody is hard. Regardless of whether they look like you or don't, your neighbours need to be tolerated, respected even appreciated. Our differences are what keep us interesting. Which leads us to: Stay busy. Whether you are pecking scratch, chopping firewood, laying eggs or writing your thesis, it's important to keep at it. Moving keeps you up; being idle makes you low. Get to it! Also though: Rest when you can. It's important to get down time, relaxation and sleep. Standing in the sunlight can be quite rejuvenating, sitting in a dusty hole is good for what ails you, especially between meal times. And so: There is enough for everyone. Sharing can be difficult, especially where food is concerned. Still it's better to take a little and go back for more than taking too much. There's always more feed/food, so chill. Which brings us to: Mama/Papa knows best. She has been where you are right now and even if she hasn't, she knows someone who has. If not, he'll tell you so listen, you might learn something. And lastly, do your best. Again, it's not the size of the egg that counts, it's the quality. As my husband would say, you only get out of something what you put into it....

Pastor 2

 

     Sometimes it is difficult to put into words the effect one person has on another's life. If their influence is positive yet subtle, the way a breeze can cool a stiflingly hot day or an unexpected compliment can save an otherwise awkward exchange, the effect is sometimes overlooked. If you are young and struggling socially, a great Youth Group at a warm and caring church can be an amazing blessing. Add an awesome Youth Pastor and you have a recipe for success.

     Our eldest has been blessed to have such a person in her life. Encouraged to be a regular member of the Youth Program and further encouraged to be a volunteer in the church's Sunday School helping with the younger kids, our daughter gained confidence, insight and valuable perspective. The boost to her self-esteem and sense of self cannot be overstated. The fact that he and his young family are moving and that he is returning to seminary is a great loss to her and all the youth and children of the church. Speaking personally, the adults will miss him too.

     Patience, positivity, honesty and a wonderful sense of humour are just part of the reason that he will be missed. It may be difficult for a while for our daughter to move forward without this caring and cool person at her church. But that is life; loss and change rule. All we can do is pray for him, his wife and young children and hope their path leads them our way again. Thank you Pastor Orin!

Satisfaction

     A famous guy even older than me is still singing the old rock' n 'roll song of the same name and there is something to be said for it....satisfaction, I mean. For me it happens in the late afternoon when the sun is shining but thinking about setting, my girls are home and safe, dinner is figured out because it's a huge pot of soup that I made yesterday, the eggs are gathered, the house is warm and soon it will be time to sit together and relax. I am sure those old guys were writing about something else but there you go.
     There is a lot to be said for wanting what you have rather than having what you want, a sentiment that our society does not give a great deal of airtime to; shopping makes the world go 'round apparently, especially at this time of year. The traffic is beyond frustrating, there are line-ups everywhere for everything and a sense of panic that seems to dominate the world out there. There is therefore a lot to be said for staying home, staying close and spending time instead of money. I don't mind how many times I lose when I play "Sorry" with my daughters, I am just happy to play. (Actually I have never won--- how does that make sense!?)
     Our eldest is enjoying her life skills program and is now over ten months seizure free and we are still not able to explain this change. Explanation is impossible however and so unnecessary; life is good. Our youngest dislikes high school but works hard to get straight A's. Life is good. I am aware of how quickly this all could change. I am also satisfied that we are doing all we can to keep them both healthy: good food, regular exercise, lots of sleep, prayer and fun and of course for the oldest, her anti-epileptic meds. If we make it to February, there will be a party. In the meantime it's all good.