Consider Joy

In the day of prosperity be joyful; and in the day of adversity consider: Elohim has made the one as well as the other. Ecclesiastes 7:14

The Preacher pounds the pulpit yet again. Joy comes with affluence but beware of comfort because trouble hides around the next corner. Pessimism can swamp the psyche more quickly than a downpour can fill a gutter. The question is not whether we frolic in abundance or complain about our poverty. Our Creator sets both before us at various times in our lives to exercise our appreciation of life. Prosperity might include good health; and adversity might mean the absence of relationship. Either can exist in either circumstance. Whatever we encounter in daily living makes us rich or poor according to our joy barometer. Like the aster above, we can grow in a lush garden or on a gravel side road. May your decision today bring joy where ever you find yourself. Shalom, Mother BE 




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Are You Happy?

Happy are we who shout for joy, who walk in the light of the countenance of Yahweh. Psalm 89:15

The fourth week of Lent feels a bit like Ground Hog Day -- will winter ever end? Will Lent finally reach the season of Alleluia? Lots of folks from the northern climes escape the last dregs of ice and snow to take a Spring Break south of the frost belt. I'm reminded of lyrics of a song from the musical, Oklahoma: "March came in like a lion, a whippin' up the water in the bay." Here in the high country we sing something like, "The winds march down from the Continental Divide whistling around every corner." Sometimes the winds in our psychic selves manifest in our bodies with illness. When the weather reflects our internal struggles or lethargy, we need help to get out of the doldrums! Now comes the time to turn to Psalm 89. A litany of praise for the creativity of the Holy One, the Psalm drags us from our self-centered pity parties to remind us of the glory all around us - regardless of the season, our state of mind, or our physical condition. Ah, but some of us live every day in a paradise, where the weather is wonderful all the time; and the countenance of Yahweh appears before us with the light of every sunrise. Then the Psalm reflects our happiness and contentment, indeed, our joy. If you're happy, clap you hands! Have a good week. Shalom, Mother BE  


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