Tree Stories (part 3)

I have been observing the tall Narra tree in my tiny front garden for some time.  It has been almost twenty years since I planted it.  I bought it at a nearby government tree nursery and without a second thought of how huge it could become, planted it on the side of my tiny front lawn.  

To Everything Turn, Turn, Turn

Not too long ago, friends and I would spend hours on the topic of child-rearing techniques.  The topics range from the best way to sooth a colic baby; how to prepare delicious meals for picky eaters;  proven approaches to easing the pains of separation anxieties; teaching methods to improve memory; sure-fire tactics on how to deal with rebellious and moody teens.

With our children all grown-up and living their own lives, my friends and I still spend time talking about the same things but this time we speak of our mothers and not our children.  Just like children, our mothers have come to need care, need understanding, need patience, need company, need help.

Reflect to Refresh

Since I retired, I find myself spending more time keeping a close eye on my spiritual growth.  Like most Catholics, my watchfulness peaks during Lent.  And why not? Mass homilies during the Lenten season focus on the need to pray, to change, to repent, to forgive, to listen, to follow. 

And I love that I am reminded again and again. Unlike some of my friends who can quote bible verses by heart, I stumble to remember the exact words or instructions.