Peace

First Snow Fall 2015

This is what I saw when I looked out my bedroom window this morning, October 17, 2015.  The first snowfall for the season, just as predicted.  Not surprisingly, most Labradorians now have visions of skis, snowshoes, snowblowers and sleds dancing in their heads. As the day progressed, shovels were out and snowsleds were heard zooming down the path between the trees beyond the fence.

For me, however, this scene is peaceful, somewhat comforting.  The white sparkling snow covering the dark earth in a bright, clean blanket reminds me of the Holy Spirit that falls softly on humanity covering us with His comforting presence. When Jesus rose from the dead and was preparing to ascend into heaven he promised to send The Comforter to be with us. 

In John 14:26 (Amplified Bible) It says this:
26 But the [a]Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name[in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you.

We don't ever have to be lonely, helpless, weak or distraught again.  Isn't that a peaceful, comforting thought?

Vote!

I've always been an independent thinker and have rarely voted the same as my family and friends. This election, however, I know I must vote, but I can't see anyone to vote for. 

I know there have been many changes over the years to political parties and their platforms. I don't let tradition and the way it was always done, dictate to me how I vote. As a Christian, I will vote for life and for a party that will stand up for family values. I will vote for a party that will not back down on its stand with and for Israel. I will vote for a political party that vows to work at keeping us safe against terrorism. There is one party right now that, for the most part, does reflect my beliefs but I have no confidence in the national leader or the local candidate for that party.  I'm really in a dilemma here.

I will not be bullied by anyone into not voting for a particular party, or to not vote at all. Personally, I find that a slap in the face of our freedom. So many countries are crying for democracy. We have the awesome privilege to vote, and not voting is an absolute shame.

I will say this though: please do not vote for a particular party just because it is popular among your family, friends or media. Please do not vote for a particular party because it's always been done that way. But please DO familiarize yourself with the issues. Decide on what is important to you, and VOTE!

Sunshine

 Sunshine

Clear blue sky; the sun shines down

On you and me and all around

Glist’ning here and there like glitter glue

On my granddaughter’s picture that she drew

Colourful leaves are drifting down

Covering grass and all the ground

The white picket fence is brighter too

The house and shed looking like new

But sunshine makes shadows fall

Against the house, along the wall

Dancing branches, trees that sway

A royal show now on display

The shadows begin to lengthen

As the sun sets in the west

It’s bright- red widening glow

Leaves gentle warmth on my breast

(c) Beverly Nippard

     October 9, 2015