Just a few more hours until 2018 is a memory.

My goodness what a challenging year it has been for me.

Hold and lose

Give and take

Gather and scatter

Build and remember

Years ago as a young girl in my twenties I discovered Anne Morrow Lindbergh.

Her books are beloved friends on my shelves.

Recently I went looking for this small jewel “Gift From The Sea”.

Suddenly I discovered that this old friend touches

   my heart even more now than when I read it years ago.

Shells. Times in our lives. Relationships. The importance of the inner life.

Yes, this year has given me much to ponder. The challenges have settled somewhat

   and so I’m looking for meaning, seeking God’s purpose and peace.

Once more, I’m thrilled how the Lord seems to give me just what I need

   at each season of life.

Sometimes it’s an encouraging word.

At other times a precious hug.

But each gift has blessed my life and strengthened me to embrace life

   All of life-

   the good, the hard.

   the easy, the painful.

  with acceptance and thanks.

He knows the way that we take.

The Lord IS my Shepherd.

Yes, not was my Shepherd but IS.

What a blessed comfort that is.

I don’t know where you are in life as you read this.

Life can be so roller-coaster crazy.

So unexpectedly sad.

So suddenly painful.

But where ever you find yourself remember there is more to life than what you can see.

There is One Who knows and loves you

   And Who reaches into your heart whispering His forever love.

Shells are beautiful and I collect and treasure them.

But there are more shells to be discovered.

More of life to embrace.

More of His Love to know and to wade deep into.

Please know that I pray for you as I write these simple words

   and feel free to reach out to me if you so desire.

Yes, just 7 more hours now.

Let’s welcome the New Year with praise in our hearts

   and expectancy in our spirits.

Together let’s enjoy the gifts from His Hands. 

      Sharon