Spiritual journeys, like life, have their ups and downs. I think I’ve been in a low for a while now, without realizing it. Nothing like a major disaster to come along as a wake up call. God whizzed by and said, “Hey, look what the force of nature can do. Blow off roofs. Shut down power systems. Upend trees. Disrupt our lives. But I’m still here if you need me.”
Karen Eastlund asked us to write about virtue. She sent us a long list of virtues. I have been thinking a lot about Grace. Grace kept us safe from the storm. Grace allows us to be a safe haven for our family. Grace is the virtue that gives freely without asking for anything in return.
My family is filling up my house. It’s usually just me and my husband, dog Charlie, and cats Fancy, Mimi, and Buzz. Today my home includes 4 more adults, 1 toddler, 3 dogs and a cat. My school secretary commented, “Simon Family Zoo.” But I prefer another friend’s comment. He said, “Like Christmas!”
In Grace and with Gratitude, I open my heart and my home to the ones I love. We will get through this and likely become better people.
God, grant me the grace to be the calm in the storm, love in times of trouble, and faith when things look bleak.
Reflections on the Teche 
Margaret, what a beautiful post, with grace and gratitude. Thank you for sharing your heart. It does sound like Christmas early. I pray you will all get through it sooner than later, and truly, as better people. Peace to you.
God bless you, Margaret. You have a lot to love there! Thanks for sharing.
Margaret, while your house is filled, love is sheltering all. In times of need, it is God who cradles us. Grace and love fill your house and hope will carry you through this trying time. I am grateful that all of you are together and that the storm has not brought devastation to your area. Your post and graphic are true representations that love exists and the Lord watches over us, Margaret.
You know, I think you show grace in your writing all the time. I’m glad you find it in times like this. Sometimes, I forget to be grateful for grace. This is a very good reminder…like Christmas!
So much of life is in how we choose to see it – we need grace-filters! Grace-lenses. Your post reminds us just how much. I am glad you and yours are safe. My daughter-in-law’s sister is coming to NC as it’s estimated power will be out in her part of Louisiana for six weeks. Thanks be to God for places to go and people to stay with when we need them – His grace abounds.
I love this so much! How wonderful to be a haven for your family! Ruth, thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com