September.
It has arrived while some of us are waiting for summer. True, we did enjoy a few hot days, but not as many as we may have wished after such a cold winter.
I guess, if think about what we are to “see” in this summer, it is the thought of treasuring each moment; each warm beach day we may have had; each time for silent reflection and eyes open to catch the wonder of momentary sightings “shooting stars,” glimpses of a woodland/sea surfacing creature looking straight into our eyes.
On Sunday, August 30, our scripture from James reminds us “to be quick to listen and slow to speak, and slow to anger” and we are to accept the message “planted in our hearts.”
When I read these words I think about all the ways we can be quick to listen — to listen and listen, and then to be slow to speak.
Making time each day to enter a special place, pull your car into a safe parking space, step away from your desk, take a five minute walk alone and to simply listen may be a way
to discover God’s action in your life, in ways you had not known before.
Taking time to really listen to others, when they are talking and to even, listen to the unsaid words, when stories are told may reveal more and create a deeper understanding.
This September, as we watch leaves curl, begin to turn colors, as some drop away from their home twigs, spin briefly through the air and land, I urge you all to think our own time with others: the life and joy you bring into their lives, and to also be reminded each parting goodbye may indeed be “goodbye.”
Depressing? No. Real? Yes. September 11th I’m sure many of us will recall 9/11/01 and where we were and what we felt, saw.
We will remember the stories of last goodbyes, and we will also remember how many times after 9/11 each time we said goodbye to a family member or friend, we’d add “Love ya’”
And, as the kids often would say back: “Love ya’ more!” Listen, look, share, and with warm hearts love each other “more.”
Have a blessed September.
Yours,
Pastor Susan Yaruta-Young
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