For the moment I wish to dwell on the blessings.  Trials aside, it’s the only reality.

There are the little blessings: a good cup of coffee, a nice warm shower, a clean house, a bright new flower on my potted cactus, the “inspiration” to use my un-needed dish washer to store my art materials, easily accessible to the counter where I paint, the “Betty Boops” art that I had so much fun creating hanging behind my computer, the tiny lizard that is clinging to the screen, peeking in at me and  making me laugh,  the cold, sweet watermelon that is waiting for me in the refrigerator. . . which brings my mind to the recently finished hand-painted refrigerator magnets on my work table that represent the  promise of artwork sold – albeit small.  So many of the simple things for which to be grateful!  And then there are the big blessings

The weather today is lovely.  I have opened all the windows in my apartment, pulled the living room blinds as wide as they will go, and the lace curtains in my bedroom/office/workroom are floating on a sweet breeze.  While a freeway lies within view, down over a couple of hills covered in swaying California-gold grasses and stately oaks, and the distant whoosh of traffic can be heard through the notes of Elgard’s “Enigma variations” playing on the public radio station, the only thing I ‘see’ is the green grass under my window and the distant mountain range that covers the horizon in shades of blue and violet.  The only thing I “hear” is that inner voice speaking “peace”.

It never ceases to amaze me when troubles overwhelm me, that I find that deep inside all is on an even keel.  I do not have myself to thank for this.  I know where it comes from, and I am grateful!  The word “peace” comes to me from unexpected places also:  people who connect with my art and writing, use the word often to describe what my work gives to them – people I know and strangers that I find on my way, even some who are sent to me by others.  Not everyone.  But the stream is ever-flowing.  It is all part of the “Mystery”.  I am a drop in the ocean.  I am nothing!  But the current has always carried me gently through the storms.  What is this but the greatest blessing of all: the grateful recognition that I am being used for better purposes in spite of my frail efforts to be “in control” – and because of my prayer – that I live not for myself, but for others.  If the lightning strikes me, and those around me can read by the light – Oh how wonderful that is!   If in emptying myself, I can make room for the Creator to fill the void and do the work “right” (after all, He is the expert), what greater blessing is there!

 And so, welcome trials, for you are worth more than gold.  Nothing good was ever accomplished without love and sacrifice.  I am weak to sacrifice, but He who knows, will provide the necessary trials.  I am left with what I can do – in fact, what I cannot avoid – love!  It fills me.  It’s a gift.  I wish too much to see the results of my efforts to share the love. When the word “peace” comes from the mouth of those who see my work, it is accomplished!     I give thanks to the Source

Thank you:

..to my fellow artists at Artist's Magazine, who voted "Galandriel's Cup" into first place in the Paint out competition this year.

..to Dew and Chrismarie for believing in me.

..to Aegean and jCandace for their continual loving support.

..to Conetzin for being my 'friend' when I needed one most - even though he was only a child!