Photo courtesy of Luetta Barton, Birch Meadow Farm, Lancaster, MO
"Like diamonds scattered across the countryside..." Pa said. The tree farm rested beneath a blanket of white... fresh, pure, kissed with glistening crystals against a brilliant sapphire sky. A sparkling winter morning. Like a cooling summer rain or the tender green strands of spring, each season brings something refreshingly new. A clean slate.
Since I was a little girl skipping around my mom's classroom, I've loved the allure of a freshly-cleaned chalkboard. Even more so, I loved the crisp contrast of the first white strokes etched upon a clean canvas.
We see it in the New Year. A fresh start. New beginnings. Unmined. Untapped. Waiting for discovery. I am setting goals. Looking ahead. Prioritizing. Strategizing. Ready to make it happen.
Truly that new beginning was beneath the tree, beneath the star, within the stable. The Gift of Christmas brings us renewal, hope, potential... eternity. Love unconditional. That changes everything.
As I shopped for gifts this season, a piece of art caught my eye. Upon a clean slate were the words, "I love you... no matter what." I am recreating a similar piece for our home this week, a reminder as we travel into a brand-new year of growth and discovery. When we know that we are loved unconditionally, we are set free to soar. The safety of that net does not bind, but rather unleashes potential and ignites dreams.
Above all else I want my little men to know that they are loved... no matter what. A love that isn't without discipline. Discipline... disciple... train... love. As I ponder these words I hear an uncertain cry.
"Bubba? I broke it."
It. The rocket ship which has taken hours of construction... the one that has only just been accomplished... special gift. I wince. Mama heart waits for the reply.
"Oh," comes a soft, assuring voice. "It's ok. I've broken that part myself. We can fix it."
My whole heart smiles.
So... a brand-new year. I'm thinking of the big stuff I want to tackle... and the small stuff, too. And the best part? When I make a mistake... even if it all falls apart... a little voice will say, "I love you. You're the best mommy ever."
And He'll smile... with His whole heart... as He quietly dusts us off.
Meet you after class to clean the erasers,
Susan
