Porch Swing

My porch swing is my go-to place to ponder life, dreams and struggles. Sometimes I wish it was in a more secluded location because so many of my thoughts are too private to be displayed through tears and prayers. However, there's something to be said for having a perch from which to wave hello to neighbors as well.

The old porch swing has seen quite a bit of action the last couple of weeks as I have emerged from hibernation. Greg and I have already made some spring plans for the yard while parked there. The afternoon sun beating down on my vitamin D deprived face has been instrumental in leading me out of the winter blues. I have battled them once again but can report this year was easier, praise God. The fog has lifted and I am breathing more deeply once again.

We are facing some changes in our family and seeking peace and wisdom. We know God grows us during trials and in the end, this may be better than we anticipate. Isn't that the way it typically works with change?  I am drawing strength from an excerpt I found in a brief reading of Be A Circle Maker. "Sometimes the power of prayer is the  power to carry on. It doesn't always change your circumstances, but it gives you the strength to walk through them. When you pray though, the burden is taken off your shoulders and put on the shoulders of Him who carried the cross to Calvary." Amen.

On top of the unwanted changes, we are preparing our hearts for Erin to move out in the coming days. She is excited to fly and it's bittersweet as we celebrate her ability to do so but still want to hold her close.

So the swing, it's privy to my most private conversations, thoughts and emotions. Like a trusted friend it waits for me to swing through this season as we celebrate and discover what plans God has for us. The swing and God are patient. I am not.