Tag Archive for: Thoughts

Counting Blessings (and Turkeys)

It has often been said that if one can’t fall asleep, then they should count sheep.  When I was growing up, my Mom put a little twist on that.  She told my sister and me to count our blessings if we couldn’t sleep.

A few weeks ago, I drove by a farm with this large flock of turkeys.  I’m sure that this pasture is now empty.  Those birds have gone from feeding on grass, to being the main feature of many Thanksgiving Day meals.

While I don’t know how many turkeys were in that pasture, it reminds me of sheep.

There’s no doubt that this year has been challenging for many people.  Yet, even in the midst of struggle, there’s often a glimmer of hope – something to give thanks for.  What if we thought of each of these birds representing a blessing that we have been given.

As we begin this holiday season, I hope that you’ll join me in counting our blessings.

Happy Thanksgiving!  🙂

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.”  –  Psalm 118:1 (NIV)

(Please follow us on Facebook at “The Rural Journal” and online at www.theruraljournal.com. This was first published at www.theroadreport.wordpress.com.)

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Hang On!

It’s the middle of November, and the majority of the leaves have fallen by now. Yet, there are those stubborn ones that are determined to hang on to the end.

As we approach Thanksgiving, many of the last surviving leaves are beautiful. They seem to pop out against the brown of barren trees.

Looking at these leaves, they remind me that a lot of people are like them. These men and women are hanging on. They may feel that their circumstances are beyond control – and perhaps, without hope.

Yet, these leaves show us that we all need to hang on. In fact, like these trees, new leaves are just a few months away. That foliage reminds me of hope – returning in a new season of life.

Nature is often used by God to display His love. If the Creator can make flowers beautiful and provide for wild animals, He can, and does, care for each one of us.

As the leaves continue to fall, I hope that you’ll enjoy those last colors. Let them be a reminder for each of us to hang on!

Have a great day! 😀

(Please follow us on Facebook at “The Rural Journal” and online at www.theruraljournal.com. This was first published at www.theroadreport.wordpress.com.)

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Hills and Curves

Each trip offers a chance of a new adventure. Most of the time, we have a destination in mind. But, once in a while you and I may just decide to take a drive and see where we end up.

The rolling hills here, along with the curvy roads, create many unique views. One may never know what to expect over the next hill or around an upcoming turn.

That’s how life is, isn’t it?

We often have our lives mapped out. You and I seem to know where we’re going. Yet, how often does something come along that throws us off course? In fact, we may experience something great – just totally unexpected.

Yet, even in these unplanned moments, we don’t need to worry. Nothing surprises the One who created us. When we trust Him, you and I can be confident that we’re in safe hands.

Let’s enjoy the ride – looking forward to what may next come into view!

Have a great day! 😀

(Please follow us on Facebook at “The Rural Journal” and online at www.theruraljournal.com. This was first published at www.theroadreport.wordpress.com.)

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A Brilliant Autumn Sky

As I look at this picture, one of the first thoughts is how the blue sky reaches to the horizon. Yet, the vistas afforded by the Appalachian foothills of eastern Ohio offer some terrific views. The blue skies, fall colors and cattle grazing in the distance offer a peaceful, restful image in an often chaotic world.

By late October – when this picture was taken, you never know what colors will be left. Or, if any will even be remaining. As can be seen, autumn rains haven’t caused the leaves to fall just yet.

Looking at this picture, I can’t help but think of God’s handiwork. His creation speaks of His brilliance and love for us.

Each season offers unique glimpses of beauty. It’s when we deliberately slow down that we will truly find the peace that these scenes offer us.

Have a great day! 😀

(Please follow us on Facebook at “The Rural Journal” and online at www.theruraljournal.com. This was first published at www.theroadreport.wordpress.com.)

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A Worn Fence and Autumn Leaves

I recently made a delivery to an old farm. As I was leaving, this scene caught my attention. The worn fence was a nice contrast to the trees’ leaves.

Fences often have a way of blending in with the landscape.  We often take them for granted – until animals get out.

As those of us who have ever lived in the country know, fences are an important part of farms.  In addition to managing animals, they help to prevent predators from attacking livestock.  Fences can also serve as markers for property lines.

A well-maintained fence can add value and security to a property.  Worn, dilapidated ones are often an eyesore.

Whether we realize it or not, there are fences in each of our lives.  These come in the form of the ideas, values, religious views and other perspectives that form and shape who we are.

How well we conform and remain consistent to these beliefs and ideals tells a lot about the fences that we’ve built.

Next time that you or I drive down a rural road, let’s take a look at the fences that we pass.  What do they say about the farms that they’re a part of?

Then, let’s think about the fences that we’ve placed in our lives.  Let’s check to see how well they’re holding up.  Are they protecting us, or do those fences need some mending?

Have a great day!  🙂

(Please follow us on Facebook at “The Rural Journal” and online at www.theruraljournal.com. This was first published at www.theroadreport.wordpress.com.)

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Slowing Down

Backroads have a way of making people slow down. It may be the loose gravel, mud or potholes. That, or a desire to go slower may be because of the scenery that seems to appear only in places that are off of the beaten path.

I’ve always loved these roads – except when they’re covered with snow and ice.  They offer an opportunity to get away from the hustle of the world around us.  Along the way, we’re able to unwind and allow our minds a chance to rest as we enjoy the views that change around every curve and over each hill.

Each season offers unique glimpses of the changing countryside.  But, it’s autumn that I always enjoy the most.  Old farms and falling leaves offer a journey down “Memory Lane” – as I recall stories that my parents and other family members have shared with me over the years.

Along these narrow roads, we’re also allowed to experience the hand of God in new and unique ways.  As we cross over streams, wind our way through woodlands and pass by old buildings and pastures, each new scene allows us a different perspective of the Creator’s handiwork.

The trees will soon lose all of their leaves as the air grows colder. Yet, there’s beauty just out of sight as we travel along on these backroads.

Have a great day! 😀

(Please follow us on Facebook at “The Rural Journal” and online at www.theruraljournal.com. This was first published at www.theroadreport.wordpress.com.)

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A Millcreek Perspective

“How did you get that picture?”

My father asked that after he first saw this picture. As the son of a milk hauler, he knew this valley well from his childhood.

Growing up, I learned many of these local landmarks and farms from Grandpa, Dad and my uncles. Traveling these roads between home and my grandparents, I learned a lot of these places by the names of the farmers who once lived there – when my grandfather picked up milk cans. In fact, more than four decades later, Dad can still recite the can numbers for some of those farms.

Today, I deliver lumber and building supplies in this area. Most of these farms have changed hands – some several times in the past half century.

Yet, there’s something about traveling the same backroads and country lanes as Grandpa and Dad did years before. Even today, many of those old names are referred to as I talk to Dad or my wife.

We live in a world that seems to be becoming more divisive and fragmented. Yet, these narrow country roads help me have a greater sense of community – and being able to serve those who live nearby.

We all have a responsibility to care for and serve those around us. Let’s look for opportunities to build up our communities!

Have a great day! 😀

(Please follow us on Facebook at “The Rural Journal” and online at www.theruraljournal.com. This was first published at www.theroadreport.wordpress.com.)

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Mum’s the Word!

As summer fades into fall, autumn decorations become common to see. Corn shocks, pumpkins, gourds and mums can be seen outside of many homes and businesses.

Fall displays have always been something that I enjoyed seeing. After a busy summer, it’s fun to see the rewards of a good harvest. Autumn decorations also mean that the holiday season is just around the corner – with all of its fun festivities and get-togethers.

These blooms offer a splash of color during harvest time. With these flowers, we realize that the weather is going to be growing cooler. Decorative displays like this allows some warmth before the long, gloomy days of winter set in.

We live in a world that’s full of competing voices. Perhaps, we are missing out on the golden nature of silence. It’s in that quietness when we can hear our Creator and the needs and concerns of those around us. Remember, “Mum’s the word!”

Have a great day! 😀

(Please follow us on Facebook at “The Rural Journal” and online at www.theruraljournal.com. This was first published at www.theroadreport.wordpress.com.)

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Journey Down a Dirt Road

I came across this picture that I had taken some time ago. Many thoughts about dirt roads and old barns came to mind as I looked at the photo. 

As I continued to look at this scene, thoughts of work came to mind. After all, dirt roads and old barns seem to bring up memories of hard, manual labor – you know, an honest day’s work. 

Today, we live in a world that seems to grow more hectic by the minute. The technology that was supposed to make our lives easier has often just made us busier. We’re in a hurry to get places, but we don’t take the time to enjoy the ride. This is many of our lives. But, is that what life is really about? A constant rat race from birth to death? 

Over the years, I’ve come to realize that there’s joy in the journey – not just at the destination. Along the way, we’ll experience bumps and bruises – and, you and I will hit some pretty big potholes. Yet, like a great meal that’s been left to simmer, the best things in life are often found on the roads that are least traveled. 

Old barns, houses and fences tell their own stories of love, laughter, trials and hard work – the kind of life that leaves a person exhausted and yet contented. These feelings are robbed from us when we’re too busy to slow down. 

Pictures like this remind me that the best things in life often occur when we take our time. Not only do we make fewer mistakes, but we may experience and enjoy what really matters – time with God and loved ones. 

So, let me urge you to find a dirt road. Slow down and see where it may lead. You may be surprised to find the destination to be a place that draws you closer to your Creator and loved ones. 

Have a great day! 😀

(Please follow us on Facebook at “The Rural Journal” and online at www.theruraljournal.com. This was first published at www.theroadreport.wordpress.com.)

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Built to Withstand the Weather

Many people love covered bridges. They stir nostalgia – allowing memories of another time to come to mind.

As part of their charm, these structures often draw much speculation to why they were built. It seems, thanks Hollywood, chivalry and courting come to mind for many.

However, the real reason for covered bridges was more utilitarian. They were originally built to protect the structure from the weather.

While maybe not as inspiring as a love story written for the big screen, there’s something just as noble and powerful to the reason behind covered bridges.

We often look at the outward appearances of people and things. Yet, we don’t look at their inner beings – who or what they really are. While an appearance may make for an attractive picture, the inside “guts” reveal the real structural integrity of a person or thing. It also makes us ask if the bridge (or person) is built to withstand life’s storms – and are they who they were created to be?

Covered bridges offer a unique, attractive perspective of a previous era. Yet, they also offer a great reminder that we must always look at what’s inside to make sure that it matches what is on the outside.

Have a great day!

😀

(Please follow us on Facebook at “The Rural Journal” and online at www.theruraljournal.com. This was first published at www.theroadreport.wordpress.com.)

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