Welcoming Winter

Winter weather comes in starkness; but human spirit adds its blaze. Flickering embers spark the fire; sending fragrance everywhere. Stockings hung beneath the mantle, burning wood, eyes in a daze. Glad hearts singing, holiday ringing, shoppers rushing here and there, The stint of winter man has entered, real loves viable affair. Wind-songs float on gentle breezes; melodies traverse freezing land. Gifts of love become infectious as people demonstrate their care. Thoughtful folks seek out the needy in hopes to lend a helping hand. Life's refreshments cheering the season, love and giving fills the air. Lights adorn the darkest nights, uplifting souls with holiday fair. Seeking God's mantle, conferred to men, aids calmness, oh, times fast pace. Devoted service freely given, teaches souls a peaceful love. As the season welcoming winter, earth takes on a brand new face. Likewise men look up to God finding renewed calmness from above. Slower paces, cold days know, warms while hearts escape life's push and shove. Lively feasts and celebrations change into nature's winter show. Squirrels with acorns tucked in tree trunks, snuggle, snowflakes falling down. Deer sleep in the crinkling cover; temperatures plummet very low. All is well upon the earth, when daylight brings sunlit warmth around. Fallen leaves decorate the earth with reds and yellows turning brown. So it is that life does cycle interwoven with social themes. Man and nature on one planet, sharing the great gifts God has made. Distracted at times, mundane actions, yet reminded, so it seems. That with great wisdom God created every season's next cascade. Frozen waters fight the springtime when winter's beauty is waylaid. © November 8, 2010 Dane Smith-Johnsen