Nestled in the protection of her surroundings, this lonely egret stands – by herself wondering. She may have lost track of her mate. Perhaps she needs time to herself. Maybe she is seeking direction from her Creator. As I think of my own situation, I tend to feel much like her. My mate is no longer available for advice, for a tender touch, for laughter and a pat on the back. There are times when I need the quiet of solitude, to remember when he was part of this world. To look at his art and see him in every brush stroke. To imagine he’s still here and that all of this is just a dream. At that point I know that in order to move forward, I must seek direction from the One who never leaves. He will always be with me, even after I take my last breath on this mortal coil.

ART & POETRY BY PAUL T. & KATHY BOECHER©

We often seek to hide from God – our sins are much too great,

We tremble at the thought of Him, but He will simply wait,

Until the darkness is too much for us to comprehend,

We’re in so deep, our broken hearts think they will never mend,

But He provides a way for us, His hand is in all things,

He lifts us with His might and strength, Salvation to us brings,

When time for us runs out we think our sins will be revealed,

For all the world to know about, we think our fate is sealed,

But God has different plans for us.  His love will last forever,

He sent his Son to pay the price.  It was His chief endeavor,

He’s with us every moment.  We cannot hide from Him,

How great His love and mercy, our very souls did win,

He washed us clean from all our sin, the victory now is won,

We never have to hide again; His work has just begun.

So, turn your heart to Jesus.  Delight in His great love,

For us He’s granted pardon.  Our home waits up above.