Thanks to Ramona Behnke who prompted our group to write about gladness this month. In particular, how to gather gladness. You can find Ramona's post and links to others at her blog Pleasure From the Page.
I was looking through old photos when I was unexpectedly struck by the many blessings of my life. To be honest, some photos took my breath away. Why unexpectedly? In some I didn't remember the faces being so beautiful. Or I didn't remember the tenderness I had witnessed. I didn't remember some moments at all. I was unexpectedly overwhelmed.
I sometimes feel that my entire life has been one long journey out of fog. It seems that blessings have been staring me in the face, and oftentimes I've been blind to them. What was I thinking? Where was my focus?
Then I came across this poem by Chesterton. I think it speaks very well to my experience and this prompt.
Lo! I am come to autumn, When all the leaves are gold; Grey hairs and golden leaves cry out The year and I are old.
In youth I sought the prince of men, Captain in cosmic wars, Our Titan, even the weeds would show Defiant, to the stars.
But now a great thing in the street Seems any human nod, Where shift in strange democracy The million masks of God.
In youth I sought the golden flower Hidden in wood or wold, But I am come to autumn, When all the leaves are gold.
- G.K.Chesterton
You can read her entire article HERE.
Thanks for sharing the new-to-me Chesterton poem. I enjoyed Marlene's analysis of the poem and the connections she made to grace, our theme for last month. I love your observation that looking at photos can help us recognize our blessings and remember past experiences. Both of your photos are stunning!
ReplyDeleteKaren, my daughter and son-in-law gave me a mobile display of revolving photos from the grandchildren's lives since birth. The little girls and I always stare in amazement as the pictures filter through the monitor. Looking at these photos is a blessing that makes me glad for the precious gift of family. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and those of others. Happy Fall to You.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful prompt. I agree with the delight of old photos. I see them differently now. Oh, those pics of my babies...I miss those little people I could pick up and cuddle. I LOVE the people they are now...but sigh...those cuddle days are over. What a beautiful poem to sum up your feelings. Blessings to you, friend. Glad I came over to read.
ReplyDeleteI'm with Chesterton -- the older I get, the more poignant (and personal) autumn has become.
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