by karan Koelling

Autumn’s Message

The patio bench invites me to linger and bask in the autumn sunlight as it filters through the leafy branches above me. Bold colors emblazon flower beds with brilliant yellow chrysanthemums and giant scarlet blossoms topping the sedum. Creeping from the rock garden’s shadows, a spotted salamander seeks warmth on the cement steps.
I want to embrace this glorious day, clutching it tightly, never relinquishing it to winter’s icy grasp. Like the Indian summer days, my days on earth are also numbered. A gentle breeze seems to whisper a message in passing, “Live fully……..grow in faith…..love deeply……. and discover beauty in all of life’s seasons.” --Karan Koelling © 9-29-08

by B.J. Axthelm

Fools Test the Water

Penny for your thoughts—
not much to have to pay.
But if your mind should go blank,
don’t forget to turn off the sound.
Only a fool tests the water
when no one is around.
Never let yesterday use up today.
Keep your lantern brightly lit
before it all fades away.
B. J. Axthelm

Favorite Sayings

Success is not a destination, it is a road.
Even if you’re on the right track,
you’ll get run over if you just sit there.
All wise men share one trait—the ability
to listen.
Live your life so you don’t have
to hide your diary.
Don’t wait for something to turn up;
get a spade and dig.
- Collected by B. J. Axthelm

by Ardath Kusek

Hugs VS Space

When I was a child, hugs were not frequent, if ever, given in our family, but we had no doubt of parental love and affection. I remember family from Missouri visiting, and as they left, the adults exchanged hugs along with advice to drive carefully. From my youthful point of view, hugs were too personal to exchange in public Just don’t hug me—you will invade my space. This attitude I harbored for years. When I came or left, it was not with any demonstrative fan fair of a hug. Stay out of my space!

As a mature (very mature) adult, I still treasure my space, but my general attitude has changed. Now, I’m told, hugs help heal disputes, comfort people with problems such as loneliness and disappointment, give encouragement, and demonstrate love and affection.

Well, I’m not too free with hugs (I don’t want to invade your space), but I do try to remember to hug those who need a hug and say “I love you” to my family when they come to visit or when they leave. They have no problem in imitating this very nice exchange of space invading. It is wonderful that as you grow older, you can share your space with a welcome hug and an “I love you.”
Ardath Kusek © 2008

by Ellen Bartlett

Just One Moment
For just one moment…
I will hold my children for an extra hug,
I will say, “I love you” with great meaning.

For just one moment…
I will march unafraid,
Not take for granted
The beauty that God alone made.

For just one moment…
I will rejoice in my life,
And humble myself to Him, amidst strife.

For just one moment…
I will remember a kindness bestowed,
I will stop and watch a river flow.

For just one moment….
I will live my life as in eternity,
Praying for peace, please let it be.
For just one moment…- Ellen Bartlett