Another One!

Courtesy of Pixabay

Yes, another year down and another one on the horizon. Instead of a formal post I want to take this opportunity, at the end of another year, 2018, to thank all of you for reading, "liking" and especially "sharing" my posts.  By doing the likes and shares I am able to see more inclusive stats on my web page.  

I also appreciate your phone calls, comments and referrals for spiritual direction appointments.  Seeing so many transformed lives of those individuals who have come for spiritual direction over these past few years I continue to get so very excited for what it has to offer. 

That is true for not only a one time appointment but for the consistent, regular appointments over months and often years. If I could only take a before and after snapshot of a person's spirit to share the miracle that often happens in those individuals...very heartwarming for both parties, them and myself.

When I see these changes I will always say, "it certainly wasn't me, but God!"  And then I am very certain to say, yes, God continues to sit in his chair, thus 'Third Chair Spiritual Direction'!"  So, from me personally and Third Chair Spiritual Direction, a blessed 2019 to each and every one of you, and thanks again...and let me encourage you to continue liking and sharing my posts!  Thanks!

Full Moon

Courtesy of Pixabay

I was looking at the beautiful full moon Christmas Eve and thought how apropos it was for that night:  when the Greatest Light came into this world in the most humble and unassuming way...a baby who would grow to give his life for us, out of love.  

The winter solstice also presented itself this week which means the days are in the process of growing longer, and lighter, even if only by seconds the first day.  In no time it will be obvious of the longer days, but not quite yet. 

How much light do each of us bring into the day? Or is this a question that we don't give much thought to? Some days when I look back on my day I think by only the grace of God did my day go so well: that I wrote that letter, sent the sympathy card or made that call...or made a long-overdue visit to friends. Perhaps it was even less dramatic especially when I helped my husband on with his coat or was patient helping him into the car. Nothing major.

It amazes me how these few minutes of light come each day almost unnoticed. It's easy to be blind, to not give it a second thought but when we connect the dots of life with the seasons around us, especially Advent, Christmas and eventually Lent, the picture becomes clear. Each of us can  become that light, as bright as the moon, with our everyday unassuming acts of love to others... like what came so unassuming to us on Christmas! 

If you would like a spiritual companion, a spiritual director, to help you connect the dots of your life I can be reached for an appointment at: 920.793.3530. I can see clients in either Two Rivers or Crivitz, WI. 

I also invite you to not only "like" this post but to "share" it, too!  Thank You!

Tomorrow

Tomorrow!  It's here!  Yes, Christmas Eve, then Christmas.  Last night I had one of those nights that allowed me to spend time looking up various topics on the web.  It helped me to "change my channel" of thoughts that were going between my ears! We've all had those nights! 

Well, there were a few words that caught my attention: expectations, procrastination, perfectionism and 15 minute increments. Yes, the first things this site mentioned was how to get ready for company, but hopefully not letting everything go until the last minute.

As a Christian, preparing for the second coming of the Christ-child, this time before Christmas is also a time that I sometimes get into a perfectionistic mode thinking I have not "done" Advent the right way. After relating my spiritual life to my home cleaning life, I can let go of my expectations and perfectionism.  There is still time to take a few minutes of prayer time each day to thank God for sending His son, Emmanuel, into this world...the biggest Gift ever. 

Courtesy of Pixabay

Yes, tomorrow is Christmas!  May each of you have very blessed days with friends, family or whoever you may be blessed to be with, even if you are alone.  Yes, "Jesus is the Reason for the Season." Merry Christmas!

I am honored when you "like" and "share" my posts!  Over the years so many folks have informed me of the inspiration they receive with these thoughts.  Thank you for helping me spread these messages of strength and hope! 

"Wonderful Life"

Well, the holidays movies are playing! Some are very traditional and it's not unusual to sit through those same ones year after year.  "It's a Wonderful Life" is one of them.

Some remarkable comments have been made to me lately that indicated something that I did or said recently or many years past was instrumental in assisting that person in life.  One comment was, "you saved my sister's life!"  I honestly don't remember a thing of what that situation was. I explained that it "certainly wasn't me, but God." Another person's whole affect was different today, a minor miracle!

There are days I identify very strongly with the main character in that Christmas movie, looking only at his shortcomings and failures, until the angel, George, "saved" him from his attempt to end his life. I have never been suicidal but sometimes I don't "get it" that my life, my presence or words have done any good in this world.  Recently my sister told me that any positive benefit with others may not be for my gain, but maybe what they receive from my presence.  Hmmmm. 

No, I certainly don't go looking for accolades but when I meet a person and comments like these come to me, it encourages me to keep praying to stay in line with God's will each day for me.  That's what I pray for.  Most days I don't know how the day will look and most surprising gifts fall into my lap!

Yes, it's easy to see our own shortcomings and think they glare to others but not necessarily so. Maybe our presence or gifts are what they need from us, not what we need. Notice I am not saying "presents" but "presence."  There is a difference! It's a good thing there are others in my life who let me know indeed it is a wonderful life! It truly is!


If you would like a companion to talk about your "wonderful life" I can be reached at 920.793-3530 for spiritual direction. 

Living Psalm

Be a Living Psalm 

It matters not. 

The dialogue, the arguments

are not worth

the air you expend.

Rather, pick up the empty

beer bottle and rumpled

week old newspaper

from the sidewalk.

Stop, for just that moment

as you slice the peach

with a serrated knife.

Two drops of juice.

Look into the watery eyes

of the homeless man;

they may or may not

 be vacant.

Hold the hand of your partner

of fifty years, smile

at the faint whistle of air

through his nostrils.

Be patient with your impatience

with your aged Mother; 

know she, too, hates

you at times.

Lift your eyes to the ballet

of eagle and wind, a wind

that can sometimes send

roof tiles and tree limbs flying.

Slice the radish paper-thin,

spread it fan-like around

the white plate. Bless the bread

before you eat it.

Know that life shakes herself

awake each day, that random

pieces fall into your lap.

Your job is to hold praise

and lament with equal regard.

Your job is to be a living psalm.

Jennifer (Jinks) Hoffmann

SDI Spiritual Directors International

I am a spiritual director with offices in either Two Rivers or Crivitz, WI.  If you would like to make an appointment with me for spiritual direction to discuss being a "living psalm," I can be reached at: 920.7933530. 

Nativity Displays

Courtesy of Pixabay

This past week a friend of mine asked me to go to a display of nativity settings. A local church has had this display for three years and it was a wonderful evening with a great atmosphere, thanks to a young lady playing the harp, refreshments and friendly volunteers. 

As we looked at each and every setting I was thinking to myself how nice it is to have "waiting and preparing" time for Christmas.  Yes, time goes fast especially when decorating and shopping have not even been started in my household!  

Of course, this first season in the Christian church world is known as Advent. We not only prepare and we wait for Christmas but also the second coming of the birth of the baby, Jesus.  This time also encourages us to prepare our spiritual selves, our relationship with ourselves, with God and with others.  

So, looking at nativity settings isn't just a superficial holiday past time for me, it offers me some pondering time of how I need to spruce up my spiritual life as I look to the arrival of a very notable person in my life...Jesus!  That happens December 25th!  

If you would like to do spiritual direction with me I have offices in Two Rivers and Crivitz, WI. This would be an ideal time to discuss with a spiritual companion how you are preparing your spiritual life for Christmas.  I can be reached at 920.793.3530.

Points of Light

I don't know about you but I have been glued to President HW Bush's funeral proceedings for the past days. More than once there was reference to his quotes when he used the term "points of light." During these days it became clear what these words meant to him, and it makes sense!

Courtesy of Pixabay

Driving home from a meeting last night I had some time to ponder.  Looking out over Lake Michigan I looked up at the sky to see what stars I could see, knowing there was also reference to the stars in these quotes. However, it was an overcast, cloudy night; no stars could be seen but I knew they were there. 

It hit me; "how could I, each of us, be like the stars, a "thousand points of light?" Thinking back over time I have had friends share some incidences with me that helped them or a family member, something I said or did.  Many of those times I didn't even remember, but they certainly did. 

So, today, I am renewing my resolve to be the best person I can be in word, action or deed knowing those "points of light" are such an inspiration to others! What about you? It doesn't necessarily take a president's death to make this awareness, but it did for me! Thank you 41 and may you rest in peace!

If you would like to share how you enjoy seeing life in a deeper way and would like an appointment with me, a spiritual director, I can be reached at 920.793.3530. I have offices in either Two Rivers or Crivitz, WI. It might be the best gift you could give yourself this Christmas season!

Good Friends!

I have been without internet access for about 10 days, my own choosing.  Today I was notified by a handful of concerned friends that I have been hacked, AGAIN!!  This is most distressing to me because technology is certainly not my first love!

The hack apparently used my picture and sounded so real, saying that I had gotten a grant for a huge sum of money...with a glitch of having to pay $1,000 to get it!  I appreciate these friends who removed it for me, went to the police and notified me. 

Rest assured I would NEVER notify ANYONE using social media platforms to inform of information such as this!  It is a sad state of affairs that someone is so crooked to do such a thing, steal, lie and cheat and defame a person's character in this way. Rest assured, there certainly are wonderful folks out there; my friends rank high on this ladder.  However, I always remember a saying from Anthony DeMello who said, "In God we trust, but still always tie up your camel!"

So, I am "tying up" my camel, taking precautions and hopefully can ward off another attack! Personal scams on the phone also require diligence so, I encourage you to always be on the lookout for something that sounds too good to be true!  And thanks again to my good friends who have alerted me to this incident!

Michael

Hurricane Michael now is in the headlines, with pictures of destruction of Mexico beach and other areas of Florida in the forefront of the news. The storm is just about over Virginia.  I can hardly take my eyes off the television as I watch it all. 

Katrina Damage. Courtesy of Pixabay

This storm was nearly a Cat 5, more destructive than Katrina and some other hurricanes. Memories of my two trips to Biloxi/Gulfport, MS. to do mission work after Katrina filled my heart.  Most of the team I was with did construction; nurses stayed back and dispensed needed medicines; I listened to local folks share their horrendous stories of what happened to them, their homes and their loved ones during and after "the storm."

I find myself getting emotional as I remember those times, the people and their experiences.  Then I recall how blessed we were to have a "mash tent" to sleep and eat in. Folks who had lost everything came to a dispensary just to get basic clothes they needed. 

Why am I sharing this?  Many of us cannot travel to these devastated areas to help. Too, many of us could literally give half of what we own away and still have double of what others have, especially after losing everything in the storm.  There are organizations that are so helpful and give the majority of what they raise to those needy causes!

Two major "watchdogs", Charity Navigator and Charity Watch can help you decide which organization deserves your support. So, as helpless as I feel right now, I am asking all of my readers to consider your means in order to donate to a reliable organization of your choice to help the areas of high destruction from the hurricanes.  Michael survivors, and others, will appreciate your generosity. No amount is too small; it all adds up!  Thank you!   

Our "Plate"

Courtesy of Pixabay

Have you ever had to back out of plans you had made, not because you wanted to avoid the activity but that your "plate" was just too full?  Lately, I was so overwhelmed at the thought of a certain trip that I was losing sleep over the thought of it!  After processing it all with a friend she simply said, "well, cancel going!"  Hmmmm, to think I had options!  So I did...I backed out!

It was amazing when I called the person I was to go with.  She wasn't upset at all but later called me and told me she backed out going too!  The relief she and I both felt was enough to lift the Empire State Building!  It was that palpable!

It was after this situation the word "self-care" came to my attention through a post. I got to thinking of how many ways we can care for ourselves in such a myriad of ways. We need to be aware that, no matter what, we usually have options that allow us better self-care.

Some folks operate with very large "plates" in life and can put a lot on their plate, but sometimes circumstances are such that our plate is small.  Too much on it stresses us unnecessarily but we can minimize that stress with better "self-care."  I'm glad I discovered how good self-care feels; consider it for yourself!

Molly LaFond is a spiritual director and has openings for new clients at this time.  I can see clients in Two Rivers or Crivitz, WI.  Contact me at: 920.793.3530.  To follow my posts, scroll all the way down this post and insert your email in order to be notified or go to: MollyLaFond.com

Green Grass

Did your lawn, garden and plants take a hit in the dry weather we've had lately?  Ours did.  It seems to happen about this time every year, doesn't it?  Life is sort of like that, too.

My dear cousin, Greg, called me yesterday.  I've talked of him before!  He calls "to hear" my voice, he says, but fails to see the good he does when he calls.  We sit and laugh our fool heads off.  Of course, it's the "nickel" he puts in me and the conversation just goes on and on...as does the laughter! 

So, what does this all have to do with "green grass"?  Hopefully, you read my last post, "drought", and now realize all my stories really have to do with our own life's challenges. In the process of talking with Greg, I told him some days become a challenge, not knowing what to write about.  He just laughed and poo-poo'd me real good. 

Yes, days that are dry and barren in our spirit, painful because of creaky bones, humid weather that's too hot to go out in...all called "life"...well, don't lose heart. 

Courtesy of Pixabay

For many of us, green grass in our spirit may come because of a phone call, breakfast with a friend, or being grateful for something, like our pet sitting on our lap giving us something to hug and pet. It may come after sharing our concerns with a spiritual companion.  Doesn't matter.  It's the little things in life that matter!  Yes, "don't sweat the small stuff" but it's how we deal with the little things that make or break us.  No matter what, it's always a great thing to have someone to process it all with! 

Molly is a spiritual director with offices in Two Rivers and Crivitz, WI. Spiritual direction is a wonderful arena to process both "drought and green grass" times in life.  I can also avail myself to phone appointments. If you would like a spiritual companion to share your journey with, contact me at: 920.793.3530. To see more posts, go to: MollyLaFond.com

Drought

Courtesy of Pixabay

Yes, drought!  And we all know what that means:  very little to no rain, brown grass and fields, sometimes parched earth and concerns that crops will make it.  It's a good analogy when a person, me, tries to write a post for a blog and nothing comes. Writer's block some may say, although I don't look at myself as a "writer".

Yes, lot's has led up to this dry state of affairs but it's painful, as well as disconcerting. Just like a drought when we worry about our crops, gardens and worse. I look at the weather right now and weather reports show storms, rain and more rain for the next days.  Lot's of rain has already fallen, doing havoc.

Have there been times in your life that seemed like a drought, wondering if the "dry" times would ever end?  I think we all have.  There are times when not only sickness and death can leave us feeling "dry" but other situations of everyday life like a stove or hot water heater going kaput, and even pipes busting! 

I think times like these need our patience and yet we need to keep putting one foot in front of the other trusting the future to bring "rains" that nourish one's spirit.  Personal experience has told me that prayer, seeing God's goodness and having good friends and companions also help.

Molly is a spiritual director with offices in Two Rivers and Crivitz, WI.  If you would like a spiritual companion to journey with you during your "drought" times, call for an appointment. Call: 920.793.3530. To see more of my posts, scroll all the way down and insert your email or go to MollyLaFond.com

Best Kept Secret

Courtesy of Pixabay

Lately, several clients who come for spiritual direction just beam as to the benefits they have had from it in their life. It seems to be the best kept secret because so many still don't don't know about it yet. 

I could cite details but for confidentiality purposes I won't. Seeing clients light up amazes me, when from one appointment to the next, is like an LED light shining through them.Other qualities like peacefulness, renewed energy, optimism and hopefulness also are seen quite readily. 

Believe me, this change is certainly not something I take credit for, but such a huge picture can only come from God or the divine in that person's life.  When I hear them say spiritual direction is their "safe place" to talk about things where they find deeper meaning I am only an instrument that facilitates that atmosphere. 

I have been trying to get the word out about spiritual direction but it's hard to really see the benefit unless a person takes the time to sit down with a spiritual director for several appointments. It's hard to judge anything on a one time basis. 

Spiritual direction is not counseling, where the therapist assumes there is a problem to be solved or fixed. In spiritual direction, just talking about the ordinary things in a person's life, a thread of the divine begins to show its face, in the least expected ways. 

This may occur quickly, but usually more over time.Time in spiritual direction is like watching a flower grow and bloom, ever so gently.  These new insights often bring a deeply spiritual quality about them, which is indeed much different than a religious quality.  

So, why not consider spiritual direction for yourself, or even recommend it to a friend? Having a spiritual companion may be the best gift you have ever given to accompany you on your spiritual journey. Now that summer is nearly over, what a better way to start this "new year!" No need to keep spiritual direction a secret any longer! Thanks.

I am a spiritual director and can be reached at 920.793.3530 and can see clients either in Two Rivers or Crivitz WI. Any questions?  Call and we can talk. To see more of my  posts see: MollyLaFond.com

Old Dogs

My, oh my, am I the only one who gets scared, wanting to run, when something new comes along in the electronic world?  Here's what happened. I was sent some official forms that needed to be signed electronically. I found myself procrastinating, simply out of fear. I had all sorts of thoughts running through my head and the mountain of fear got huger and huger.  

Then one day the phone rang.  It was my "savior", the gentleman who had sent the forms.  No shame, no embarrassment, no teasing.  He understood completely my frame of mind then told me about himself and his own brother who had the same fears. Both of them are my age, which brings into play trying to "teach old dogs new tricks!" 

Everything was explained in the body of his letter which didn't help me because I would have to close the letter out in order to go forward but knowing I must write stuff down in order to follow directions, this worked! It was my direction sheet.

Yes, signing three documents really only took about 10 minutes and now I wonder why this task was enough to nearly tip my up-side-down?  Sometimes it's not logical but the neat thing was that I didn't have to do it alone. 

Courtesy of Pixabay

Yes, it's true, old dogs take a bit longer to learn new tricks but I didn't have to learn it alone. I had someone who was very patient, understanding, kind and gentle. It worked. Have you ever felt like an old dog learning a new trick?  Who has been there to help you during those times?  

I am a spiritual director, taking new clients at this time.  I can see clients in either Two Rivers or Crivitz, WI.  Would you like to have a spiritual companion to share your ordinary events of life with, trying to find the holy in those times?  Give me a call to set up an appointment.  I can be reached at: 920.793.3530.  To see more of my posts, see: MollyLaFond.com

Family

Have you ever been distanced from family because of miles between you?  For close to fifty years I have been 600 miles away from my home town and never really thought much about it. Lately, though, I had some clarity after spending three weeks with them because of my older brother, Tim's dying and death. Being with everyone was a very heartwarming experience. No, not one that I want to repeat, but there certainly were many blessings during that time. 

Have you ever sat with an ill person who was perhaps facing death, and there wasn't anything to "do," and it made you wonder what good you were doing. With a large family, maybe you even thought it was a waste of time, with so many others around. 

Well, my sister put it in a way that I understood.  She explained how, in the distance that I live, being among nieces, nephews, siblings and others now would give both sides time to get to know one another better. My time would be a rare opportunity to bond. She certainly was correct. 

Time spent "doing nothing" gave me a wonderful view of how my nieces and nephews parented, how all the first cousins got along like siblings and how supportive and appreciative Tim's four children were to everyone and how loving an example they were to their own kids. Not once was there an irritation, a squabble or disagreement.  This is rare indeed. 

L to R Youngest to Oldest siblings:
 Dan, Sheri, Deb, Molly, Tim

So, next time I entertain a long-running under current with myself thinking I don't matter, I will remember the weeks I spent with family during my brother's dying process.  Blessings come in the most unexpected places and circumstances.  Thank God for family!

Our Vets

Courtesy of Pixabay

July 4, 2018 Americans will celebrate Independence Day, a federal holiday commemorating that date in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was adopted. I am struck with amazement when I realize how very limited independence is in foreign countries when it comes to many things that we Americans take for granted.

There are maps that sort countries regarding how much "personal freedom" their citizens enjoy. These freedoms include: freedom of speech and religion, social tolerance, and access to legal rights. I remember in college hearing that with every "freedom" comes a "responsibility".

That brings me to our responsibility to honor those vets who struggle with PTSD, especially with the noise of all the loud noise from fireworks in the neighborhood. We certainly are free to shoot the fireworks but those situations of veterans with PTSD are cases where we could think twice and perhaps take the loud noise down the block, where it might not be so emotionally destructive. After all, their service is what has helped keep America free! 

Think about it!  And have a wonderful 4th of July! 

Dust

My good friend, Barb, shared this on Facebook.  Enjoy!

If you would like a spiritual companion to share the many things you struggle to enjoy when there's so much "dust" in your life, I am taking new clients at this time.  I can be reached at 920.793.3530. To subscribe to more posts, scroll  down and insert your email or see: MollyLaFond.com

Real Wisconsin Walleye!

A few years ago my sister came up to visit us. Of course, fishing was a big part of the week.  After we had launched our boat, I took one cast just to show her where to throw her bait and with the luck of the Irish, I caught a small walleye on that first cast!  It was going to be a great day...so we all thought!

The morning wore on, I lied about the time every time she asked, hungry for breakfast, fed her PB&J sandwiches on gummy buns and stayed out trying to catch another real "Wisconsin walleye" until we were all starving for lunch!  To this day she pokes me a good one saying there "really are no Wisconsin walleye" there!! She never wants any more PB&J's for breakfast either! And we both chuckle.  A couple of 19" large mouth bass, even though they made a wonderful fish fry, just aren't the same! 

A Real Wisconsin Walleye!

Have you ever gotten your hopes up for an event, tried your best to make everything just "so" and in the end couldn't control the outcome any way you looked at it?  Fishing is like that.  So many of my friends sometimes ask me to take them fishing, knowing I have a few fishing pictures and memories.  I do have pictures of large walleyes I have caught but most don't warrant a picture at all!

However, any real fisherman or woman knows that catching fish is only a by-product of a day fishing.  If that's all that matters, we're usually sorely disappointed.  Often my husband and I look at each other after a great day and say, "just look at the fish we don't have to clean!"

Life is like that; life is not all about everything going the way we'd like or catching a stringer full of fish.  How do each of us tack our sails when storm winds blow us off course?  How do we not let that storm sink our boat?  It's a challenge to be sure but with practice we can still have a great day, no matter what! A real Wisconsin walleye is very elusive and so is life but it can still be a great day! 

Spiritual direction is a wonderful place to share your life with a spiritual companion.  I can be reached at: 920.793.3530. To subscribe to my blog scroll all the way down and insert your email address or see: MollyLaFond.com

"Green Machine"

Courtesy of John Deere Site
AMT 600

Have you ever found yourself having the darndest time getting a task accomplished, almost as if you were taking one step forward and two backward?  Lately, I have been doing outdoor work in the yard and one thing after another has gone haywire. Our "green machine" that we use to haul yard stuff is the perfect implement to use; we have had it for over twenty-five years. 

Yesterday, I was hauling leaves and when I took it into the woods it died!  Nothing I did to get it started worked...yes, it was out of gas but now figure there's dirt in the line! I still had several piles of leaves to haul and I was completely stymied!  Frustration set in; my little pea-brain just saw no options at that moment. 

So, when I am "stuck" I usually take a break and that's just what I did!  Then I called my baby sister!  Of all things, she mentioned getting a tarp to rake the leaves on then haul them into the woods.  Of all things, I wondered why I didn't think of this because my friend and I just used a tarp last week when she was here!  It was easy, simple and no big deal. 

By ourselves we sometimes are very limited in our knowledge of resources around us. Plus, frustration blocks us and makes seeing a broader picture so difficult.  It is so hard to out-rightly ask for help but there is such a gift in asking because answers usually come and they often are not that complex.

Yes, the "green machine" now has gas but it still won't start.  However, leaves are gone, grass is cut and there's no rush today.  The next dilemma will be to push the machine out of the garage and get it up on the trailer in order to take it to a shop to have it checked over.  But that's not for today...I'll check around...I know when I go out of myself, there may be other resources nearby that I don't know about today!  

Have you ever felt like you were taking "one step forward and two backward" in life? Spiritual direction may be a great place to find the divine in these every day situations. I can be reached at: 920.793.3530. To subscribe to my blog, scroll all the way down and insert your email, or see: MollyLaFond.com

Cute Bear!

The other night, about 8:30 pm, this bear came in, stood up at our bird feeder and licked sunflower seeds into his mouth.  His head reached the top of the feeder.  We sat and just watched this activity on the "outdoor channel." This picture here doesn't do justice to his size.  The next day I went and measured the height of the feeder; it was 77" high...that's how big he was!

We don't exactly try to draw bears in but they know a good meal when they see it so in order to minimize the bears coming in so readily we'll curtail the easy meals until they head deeper into the woods.  The birds can access their feed from a high wire where the bears can't reach. 

We are a little like that bear; if there are things that are near, in sight, sound or smell, we often head to it to indulge.  That could be foods, drink, gambling or anything else.  For some, even going near people, places and things that are like "magnets" can be unsafe to be around.  It's wise to remove distance a bit from the temptations. 

Neighborhood bear
 we share with neighbors!!
 Thanks Jackie & Scott!

I know wild animals can get wilder if we don't take precautions.  This cute bear didn't know the difference between a really good rendition of a barking dog and the real thing so it took off in haste when the "barking" began!  

What do each of us do to stay away from danger? From temptation? I have heard many stories telling how a person cannot even have a certain food in the house nor go into a bar...too close and the danger so real. When we indeed recognize the danger, and take action we can stay safe. If not, it could be lethal in the end. 

This bear is cute...at a distance! What in our life is the same way!  Think about it.  Many of us could name a few things that can become dangerous if we get too close. 

Have you ever wanted to share situations in your life that initially were like this "cute bear" but ended up to be dangerous?  Spiritual direction might be a wonderful place to talk about those times.  I can be reached at 920.793.3530.  To read more of my posts see: MollyLaFond.com

Poppies

Every year on Memorial weekend, my husband buys a paper poppy from a military veteran selling them outside the grocery store.  He wears it proudly. I never understood why but he did since his dad was in WW1.

Courtesy of Pixabay

Coming into this Memorial Day weekend I now understand the significance of the poppy.  The poppy seeds scatter in the wind and lie dormant until the ground is disturbed.  In World War 1 the ground was disturbed by war and where the soldiers were buried the poppies then grew! The poem, "In Flanders Fields," says it all:

In Flanders Fields

by John McCrae, May 1915

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

In memory of all those who lost their lives in past wars, have a great Memorial Day and weekend!

Birthday

Well, it came again this year!  Every year, it comes.  Some years seem "bigger" than others and this year I nearly missed it myself...my birthday. Of course, I don't know I have the friends I do until I see all the well-wishing and cards that come, as they have. 

On the other hand, some individuals are not here this year who were still alive last year.  In fact, I just went to a funeral visitation of an acquaintance that I just had a wonderful short chat with a few weeks ago.  Her death was not expected even though several individuals suspected something more going on with her health. 

And the older I get, the more aware that the odds are there that something major may still hit with aging. Just today I took some concerns to my "Medicare physical" to get checked out.  So, how does this all play out in the bigger scheme of things?

Well, IF something big hits, are we as prepared as we can be?  Being prepared encompasses several categories: physical, emotional and spiritual. Our age plays a big part in the preparedness, too.  A young adult, with children, is certainly in a different ballgame than someone in the retirement years with a spouse with healthcare needs! 

Courtesy of Pixabay

So, I don't know if turning one year older or attending a funeral visitation brought me to this reflection but I think it's valid.  Birthdays, funerals and the dash of life in between are actually  wonderful topics to bring to spiritual direction also!  

I am a spiritual director, taking new clients at this time. Consider gifting yourself with a session of spiritual direction to talk about your birthday! I can be reached at 920.793.3530. To subscribe to my blot/posts, scroll all the way down and insert your email.  See: MollyLaFond.com

Lug Nuts

Have you ever been amazed, oh, maybe you've never even given it a thought, at how close God is to you in the course of a day? The other day my husband and I were out in the garage looking at a tire on our "green machine" that had gone flat for the second time.  He is having a harder and harder time assisting with things that need strength and versatility. So, he explained everything to me and in short order I had the lug nuts off but now to lift the wheel off...and then what! 

So, we were just sitting there, pondering how to deal with it, as well as what resources we had were to fix it.  Without missing a beat the neighbor drove in. He is a mechanic!  Immediately, George took charge, removed the wheel, directed me to get some soapy liquid, took it to the hose and there we found the problem. 

With a phone call to his buddy up the road, the wheel now thrown in the back of his truck with an appointment for early the next morning, all our concerns were solved!  Yes, this all could have been called a "coincidence" but situations like these happen too often to us so I would rather say this is "God's way of remaining anonymous!" 

Yes, we have to have eyes that see life in ways that recognize God or a Higher Power.  Some don't, I know. I had a flat tire forty-two years ago an hour away from resources and a stranger came by to help so maybe I just know I am not alone in life.  So, next time you need to remove the "lug nuts" on your flat tire in life, I hope you will see God near you in your situation.  Don't you?  Thank you, God!  Thank you, George!

Spiritual direction is about talking and sharing about all your "flat tires" in life as well as how close you see the divine in these situations.  If you would like to make an appointment with me, I can be reached at: 920.793.3530.  To subscribe to my posts, scroll all the way to the bottom of a post on my web page and insert your email address.  My web page is: MollyLaFond.com

Letters

Have you ever been in a circumstance that sometimes you just didn't have words and were unable to verbalize and explain what it was all about? I have.  I think of many times, when asked a question, I really couldn't explain and give a good explanation...like a bunch of letters, not yet words.  

Let me touch a bit on spiritual direction.  The more I sit with clients/directees, who come for spiritual direction the more I am in awe of the miracle I see happening in their lives as they share various experiences, challenges and awarenesses.  It's not a fast process nor a "fixing" atmosphere. However, I marvel at how, over time, a "new life" often emerges, which is a miracle to watch!

I think of how another spiritual director, now deceased, Margaret Guenther, often likened the spiritual director as that of a mid-wife...simply assisting and being present as the birth occurred.  That's pretty accurate in my eyes. Spiritual direction is often like that pregnancy and gestation, and over time, what's inside grows, develops and something beautiful comes of it! 

Those letters have transformed into words for this process from others: "it's my safe place," "when you asked that question, it helped me to get to something deeper inside me," and "I look forward to coming." So, maybe spiritual direction isn't something you've ever thought of for yourself, but it could be.  

Courtesy of Pixabay

It's nothing that you have to have words for, nor understand.  It just might be something to consider. Trusting that process may be a good thing! Over time, all the letters may come together!  What have you got to lose?  

If you would like to try spiritual direction for yourself, but you don't have words to explain what it is, you're in good hands.  Consider calling for an appointment at: 920.793.3530.  To see my website, go to: MollyLaFond.com or to subscribe to my posts, scroll all the way down and insert your email.  

Robins...URGENT!

THIS WAS ON FACEBOOK AND BECAUSE OF THE URGENCY I AM POSTING THIS.  IF YOU CLICK ON THE DATE, IT WILL DIRECT YOU TO THE ENTIRE SITE.  WHILE SHOPPING FOR BIRD FOOD TODAY ONE LADY TOLD ME SHE HAD 3 ROBINS THAT WERE DEAD IN HER YARD.  WE NEED TO HELP OUR FEATHERED FRIENDS.  THANK YOU. 

April 17, 2018/ Teresa Sprecher

Last night, into early morning, I took over fifty phone calls, texts and Facebook messages. Most were about weak and dying warblers, robins and woodcocks. Please understand this is an extraordinary situation. More snow and cold temperatures are predicted for Wednesday and Thursday. The birds require your help. YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! We are in desperate need of volunteer drivers for this event specifically. Please call 715-623-4015 or leave a message on Facebook if you can help us. Birds are coming from Marshfield, Stevens Point, Pittsville, Adams Friendship, Wausau, Shawano, Marion and all of the surrounding areas.
This is not a normal spring. The birds can deal with some snow and cold, but not deep snow (30 plus inches) and sustained cold. They have slipped into hypothermia, unable to maintain their own body temperature or keep themselves warm any longer. Birds that eat insects cannot find natural food. They are starving.
If you see a bird that you can pick up, PLEASE do so. Put it in a cardboard box, not a cage or a carrier. Put a towel in the bottom of the box and bring them into a warm area. Put a heating pad on low under part of the box. Cover the box to create an "incubator" of sorts. You are looking for a temperature of about 80 degrees. Put food in the box. Live or dried mealworms and live waxworms work. (obtain from Wildbirds Unlimited ,Gas station/Fleet Farm/Walmart anywhere that sells fishing bait) Keep bird/box away from family pets. Transport the bird as soon as you can to our facility or your local avian wildlife rehabilitation center. 715-623-4015
If you cannot transport the bird, we will try to find a volunteer transporter. If weather again becomes hazardous call for more instructions. Keep the bird warm, well fed, a small non-tip dish of water in the box in the meantime. Do not release while weather conditions remain challenging.
AGAIN: Please keep your bird feeders full. Robins can eat cut-up raisins, dried mealworms, shelled sunflower-seed pieces, frozen blueberries, crumbled suet blocks. Put food on the ground where you see the birds. Robins congregate along rural roads, near stands of pine,spruce or other conifers. You can also feed them in those locations, Make sure the food you put down is off the roadway. If you see a bird in need, PLEASE pick it up and put it in cardboard box with a towel in the bottom. Bring it into a warmed area. Birds are dying of malnutrition and hypothermia and need assistance to get through this horrific weather. Call REGI at 715-623-4015 or your local avian rehabilitator for guidance. We continue to operate without full staff due to weather conditions.
Thank you for your help. Our thanks to the Marshfield Police Dept. for their help last night and to Antigo Police Departments own Officer Bruce Brown for taking the time to help REGI staffer, Ashley, when she got stuck in the deep snow.

April 17, 2018/ Teresa Sprecher

Teresa Sprecher

Beautiful Sight!

Ever sit in your chair and daydream?  Well, in the middle of the snowstorm that's raging outside, its a wonderful time to visit memories in my mind.  I think of these gorgeous flowers and setting that I can't wait to get to!  What a beautiful sight, huh!?

You know, when we're in a pickle during times of being "stuck" in an environment, whether in the house because of a snowstorm, or anything else, it doesn't pay to complain about it. I remember the book, "Acres of Diamonds" of how there are "diamonds" in our own back yard, whatever that means for each of us.  

So, I took it to heart this morning.  I began shuffling and cleaning the shelves in my pantry, organizing and making more room.  Such a menial task, granted, but one I have put off for greater things!  What a better time to do it than today! 

I have to chuckle...what else can I do right here at home?  Oops, don't like that question because now I think of two pair of long pants that need an iron to press some wrinkles out!  Days like this could really get me into trouble, finding more to do than what I gambled for! 

Well, maybe I'll just keep sipping my coffee, watch MORE snow fall out our beautiful picture window and think of more beautiful sights that I long to be near soon.  Of course, it's all relative, when there's more snow on the ground mid April than what we've practically had all winter. Amazing, how thoughts in our mind can keep us content for a while when in reality there's no way of changing circumstances.  What a beautiful sight!!

Ever dream of having someone to share your "beautiful sights" with?  Call me to set an appointment for spiritual direction. This is a gift that may surprise you. I can be reached at: 920.793.3530. To see my website, go to: MollyLaFond.com