“A bluebird with iridescent wings perches like a blessing on a tree nearby.” -Rosanne Keller, Pilgrim in Time
I love this image of a bluebird perching like a blessing. When I read those words, I started thinking of all the seemingly ordinary things that surround me like a blessing. Perhaps if I looked closer, I’d see my days dripping with beauty and hope.
That spiritual discipline seems as good as any right now. There’s much uncertainty about how the coming months and year will unfold. The pandemic is still a reality. Many people are sick. Schools and work are different. People are tired of virtual meetings. Friends and family long to be together. Yet, our days do have blessings scattered throughout. If only we have eyes to see.
Here are a few of the blessings perched near me:
A candle’s light
The warmth of a fire
The way the leaves fall from the tree
Church bells ringing
The warmth of bodies reading books together
A pen and paper
A handwritten note
Picnics
Walks in the park
Children’s laughter
Leaves to jump in
Encouragement from friends
A woodpecker searching for food
Deer foraging in the woods
The sound of waves against the shore
A chair and a good book
What blessings are perched near you today?
Take a moment and look. Close your eyes and listen. See the hope that surrounds you. And repeat as needed. Amen.
Kimberly Knowle-Zeller is an ordained ELCA pastor, mother of two, and spouse of an ELCA pastor. She lives with her family in Cole Camp, MO. You can read more at her website, follow her work on Facebook, or sign up for her monthly newsletter.