ART BY PAUL T. BOECHER – TEXT BY KATHY BOECHER
We have a huge black walnut tree in our yard. Each fall, the leaves are the first to spin to the ground. When there’s rain, we have a golden carpet covering the almost dormant grass. My first inclination is to get those leaves bagged up and carried off. Maybe I’m learning to enjoy the beauty of God’s intricate and complex creation. Like those dying leaves, I resist the thought of growing old and hang on tightly to life.
The fallen leaves eventually decompose and become nourishment for the soil. They’ll create shelter for the little critters who need it during the long, cold winter months. They’ll make a cozy nest for those who inhabit the trees. There’s a purpose for everything God has created.
God has a purpose for you and me as well. We flourish in the spring and summer seasons of life. We find our niche in life. When Autumn inhabits our bodies, our true colors come out, just like those leaves on the trees. We’re at the peak of our existence.
Winter creeps into our tired old bodies and we wonder why we’re still here. We wish our struggles would end and God would finally take us home, but we hang on – sometimes longer than we need to. However, our lives are always filled with purpose and value, even in our dying days. God has used this time to bring us closer to Him and allow us to share His love with those we leave behind.
Life passes quickly, but it’s given to us as a time of grace from God alone.
” I urge you, then, be imitators of me. That is why I sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, to remind you of my ways in Christ as I teach them everywhere in every church.” 1 Corinthians 4:16-17
atimetoshare.me 
I’m saving this one, Mama K. When I was younger I wanted to keep up with the neighbors on getting leaves removed. That didn’t last long (particularly when I lived 4 years in my RV). I hope you know how your walk with Christ, your love for life and your experiences, and how you view aging, health issues, and changes, have all helped me. Fall is my favorite time. Paul’s painting is absolutely stunning. I had two walnut trees at a one-time home. You’re so gifted and precious. I love this: “When Autumn inhabits our bodies, our true colors come out, just like those leaves on the trees. We’re at the peak of our existence.” Your true colors are just brilliant. Much love and prayers, Karla and Finley 💕🐾🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 yesterday I thought of you when I was sitting around my Momma’s table with my aunts and uncles~several missing~all of them grasping aging and disease. My heart just nearly explodes. I always leave in tears wishing I could do more.
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You do much more than you realize. You’re a beacon of courage and faith. God has a plan.
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Thank you ❤️💕🙏🏻 he has never abandoned me; his plans always work. I appreciate you so much
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Beautiful..sobering..truthful..sad..hopeful and inspiring all at the same time. My prayers are going up for you and Paul.
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Thank you so much my friend❤️
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