tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13516662943255627002024-02-06T20:50:48.848-08:00Just a MomentSeeking God's Presence In The EverydayLibby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.comBlogger95125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-82507290599343106952018-05-10T13:32:00.003-07:002018-05-10T13:32:59.528-07:00Out With The Old and In With The New<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I will now be writing exclusively on a fairly new blog that I established several months ago. This new blog contains posts about my various interests: outdoor activities, nutrition, mental and physical well being, and spirituality. It's my belief that efficiency is a good thing. Many of the posts that I have written for my spiritual blog could also be included in this new blog. So, rather than send people to two places to read, why not provide one easy spot where all posts can be read without having to jump around? Please book mark this new blog into your reader or what have you: <a href="https://libbyfifewrites.blogspot.com/">On My Mind</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thanks and cheers to a life well lived,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Libby </span>Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-20904428738736182042017-12-14T07:04:00.000-08:002017-12-14T07:04:22.363-08:00Praise Song<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrEWiloy_w_mtKBV-UrqmCIuH5aTMs7WpWPtY-wyC9IK5gTVmtWMOrLjNuPO_3YdlzvvHSp_RIflFoGL01-1Zgn-XdFlf8sbupgQrEhtT0jqyzhwSxG2e_ReVYWBUkgAPM7NvwRaAUy3s/s1600/IMG_4043%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrEWiloy_w_mtKBV-UrqmCIuH5aTMs7WpWPtY-wyC9IK5gTVmtWMOrLjNuPO_3YdlzvvHSp_RIflFoGL01-1Zgn-XdFlf8sbupgQrEhtT0jqyzhwSxG2e_ReVYWBUkgAPM7NvwRaAUy3s/s400/IMG_4043%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Photo by Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Recently, </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">while looking at the note app. on my I Phone,</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> I came across the quote below:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Our purpose on earth is to praise.</i></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">My note taking is often incomplete and unfortunately I didn't write down the author's name. But in looking at the quote again I love both the simplicity and the enormity of the idea. To praise something or to offer praise is to express approval of something or someone. How often do we do this I wonder, really do this in a heartfelt way? How often do we take notice of what surrounds us? And not only take notice but acknowledge, praise and give thanks. I was so moved the other day when I found this quote that I actually pulled my car over to compose some lines. I offer the following up for some thought.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Praise Song</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To the sky, the bluest of all possible blues.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To the emerald green grass, the juicy red berries,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"> and to the soaring hawk above.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I offer my praise for a job well done.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Cool and clear running stream, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">you have outdone yourself.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Shining stars and rising sun,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">and an earth that keeps rotating despite our actions.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Keep going, we need you!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To the rain that falls,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">the ground that quakes and the fires that burn.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I offer my praise despite my fear. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Be alive!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Grazing animals, growing plants, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">and listening people.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Winds that blow and sands that shift.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">Your hard work <i>is</i> noticed! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;">Without your efforts, where would we be?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">And to the Creator above, last but not least.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;">I praise you for your generous and loving nature,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;">and for a constancy of love which cannot be matched. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;">In return, I promise to notice and to wonder,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;">and to then notice some more.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Praise be to the wonder of it all!</span><br />
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-84672582428555161302017-01-02T04:05:00.003-08:002017-01-02T04:06:55.328-08:00What Weeds Can Teach Us About Survival in The New Year<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIJbUxLJTtwxL1k4oViBE5bVIxIwfu0J6fHHl2Cv4zSK6igsbLu3wryrdOkB7tP_8k5VAOf7T85b_MybqzFPRX3JU7MbUpSI5a4HObjEi8npv7sVC3HsKnjvuQr07t9IXg2Tu0-ki-FBvq/s1600/IMG_2332+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIJbUxLJTtwxL1k4oViBE5bVIxIwfu0J6fHHl2Cv4zSK6igsbLu3wryrdOkB7tP_8k5VAOf7T85b_MybqzFPRX3JU7MbUpSI5a4HObjEi8npv7sVC3HsKnjvuQr07t9IXg2Tu0-ki-FBvq/s400/IMG_2332+crop.jpg" width="321" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">When life covers your world with asphalt...</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This year both Hanukkah and Christmas seemed to arrive quickly. Not being totally prepared is a little stressful. Both holidays demand introspection. This year there didn't seem to be any time for that kind of deep thinking.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However, it pays to look down! My regular walk happens to take me across a parking lot. As I looked down I noticed the weeds poking up through a crack in the pavement. At the same time, I found myself musing on the meaning of Hanukkah. As far as I know, it's really a kind of historical/religious holiday for Jewish people, celebrating a long ago military and religious victory. Moreover, it's a celebration of the seemingly impossible-the stretching of a supply of oil meant for only one day that miraculously lasts for eight days. Where could such an archaic series of events intersect with our current modern day life?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As I looked around myself and then down again at the pavement, it occurred to me that these weeds poking up through the cracks were emblematic of what the holidays are about: celebration of new life in light of often difficult circumstances. It's the perseverance of the human spirit in times of darkness, only personified in the form of small green shoots doggedly poking their way up through a crack in the asphalt. What better to symbolize the miracle of both Christmas and Hanukkah. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As we face the New Year, which to many of us presents the seemingly impossible, remember the weeds! It sounds simplistic I know but follow their lead: f</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ind a way to thrive even if you face the impossible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Thanks for reading and Happy New Year!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Libby</span><br />
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-23061788993560950112016-11-15T07:39:00.002-08:002016-11-15T07:41:24.153-08:00Intersections: Science, Nature and Religion<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3o_VxQfzdztFtW1CiHdsvgpn_ijqegrDdKogBQ5AaFzL9B-Q2F7FR4PlDDsdH6WkWU4y-VbU2pG3U_y4vbhm5Qe3NRGNP320gnKrlPMcauIP4vkar49Md1v9DFNttzDXOHCmTCOflkaV/s1600/IMG_1973+enhanced.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3o_VxQfzdztFtW1CiHdsvgpn_ijqegrDdKogBQ5AaFzL9B-Q2F7FR4PlDDsdH6WkWU4y-VbU2pG3U_y4vbhm5Qe3NRGNP320gnKrlPMcauIP4vkar49Md1v9DFNttzDXOHCmTCOflkaV/s400/IMG_1973+enhanced.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">View to Pardee Reservoir, Calaveras County, CA</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The intersection of science, nature and religion is of interest to me. Can one subject inform the other? Can something learned in the realm of science answer a long held question about religion? Can religion explain something seen in nature? And on and on. Insight into any of the subjects often leads to insight elsewhere.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Recently I took a hike that led me to the top of a lookout. I could see all around me: different counties, mountains and bodies of water were all within view. As I looked at the scenery, I honestly didn't know what to think. It was overwhelming mostly because of the vastness. of space. What was out there and how did it come to be? My reflections both then and now haven't yielded any answers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This isn't unusual. Most of the time, my efforts at explanation fall short! But here is where science helps. I am reading a book by Loren Eiseley called <i>The Immense Journey. </i>Eiseley was an anthropologist and naturalist; a keen and sensitive observer of his world. In one of the chapters in this book, he describes coming upon a spider and her web. He reaches for explanations and meanings because the spider is spinning the web in an improbable spot where it probably won't last too long. In the end, he decides that in these types of instances, where the unexplained has been observed, it is best to simply record the findings and leave that information for future generations to puzzle over. Each person can then ascribe their own meaning. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">His answer seemed like it could be my answer. Even though no one is likely to review my own findings of the scenery I found the other day, it is enough to record those findings and not necessarily explain them but to simply enjoy the mystery of what is. To enjoy what I feel is the intersection of nature, science and God, all made visible. Here is what I observed:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">* unseasonably warm weather for November</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">* clear views of a full Pardee Reservoir</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">* unobstructed 360 degree view of all hills, mountains and scenery</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">* very green due to early rain</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">* overwhelming sense of awe and wonder and gratitude</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Make of it what you will!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Libby</span></div>
Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-67613489387192084332016-09-29T12:57:00.005-07:002016-09-29T13:00:05.162-07:00Days of Awe-Some Thoughts<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSN7-qYClWWjWdPLqFXSYZ0jDynps1_Uo1zxx8B7utvhO-pz_DV0WE0F7VXd-FGrWO9esbrhGcCDAGrhyphenhyphenpgdKv53jnf9YPyzYnfNgGyqTsFhZViHRqV9fz9PQE3LIkq9sb93SJl0A9C0DR/s1600/9+16+Big+Trees+Dogwood+IMG_1689.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSN7-qYClWWjWdPLqFXSYZ0jDynps1_Uo1zxx8B7utvhO-pz_DV0WE0F7VXd-FGrWO9esbrhGcCDAGrhyphenhyphenpgdKv53jnf9YPyzYnfNgGyqTsFhZViHRqV9fz9PQE3LIkq9sb93SJl0A9C0DR/s400/9+16+Big+Trees+Dogwood+IMG_1689.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Change of Seasons-Big Trees State Park, Arnold, CA</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">No matter what I do, <a href="http://www.jewfaq.org/holiday3.htm">Rosh Hashanah</a> always manages to sneak up on me. Though I am not a practicing Jew (I am a non practicing convert), I still like to prepare myself for this holiday. It is my favorite time of year during the Jewish calendar. So much opportunity and so much at stake! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the weeks that lead up to the start of the first holiday (Rosh Hashanah), it's time to consider the previous year. There is some reflection and acknowledgement. It's an important time to be honest with oneself. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Specifically, it's good to consider both what has gone well and where improvement can be made. Self knowledge isn't easy and being truthful isn't always fun. Being thankful, recognizing God's gifts and his divine love, and knowing that we are imperfect beings made in God's image, are all things to reflect upon. It can be tough at times. We don't always act in ways that are as good as they could be. We fall short. Others forgive us. God forgives us. We forgive ourselves.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">By the time Yom Kippur rolls around, it's imperative to identify any failings (as well as strengths) and to make a plan to improve. One must be truly repentant. A plan to do better cannot just be an idea. It must be heartfelt and put it in to action. Wrongdoings are between the person and God but also between the person and other people. Words and actions count in the act of repentance. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's my opinion that a person need not be a practicing Jew to take advantage of these ideas. In my mind, they are really for everyone. I included the above image of what (I think) is a Dogwood tree. To me, the beautifully changing colors of the tree are a reminder of the constant renewal that the tree makes every year. Each Autumn, the leaves begin to turn color as they lose their chlorophyll. The green color, normally visible, goes away and the other colors of red and orange and yellow emerge. The tree is preparing for shorter days, less sunlight and it stops its food making process. When longer days and warmer weather return, the tree will once again begin its food production and the green leaves will again begin to grow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's an amazing and miraculous process, the tree renewing itself each season. The tree sustains itself year after year through this process. For me, that is one of the points of this holiday time; to figure out how to sustain both yourself and others around you through reflection, thanksgiving, acts of repentance and prayer. And in my mind, it's what we can all do during the <span style="background-color: #cccccc;">Days of Awe or </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.2px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i style="background-color: #cccccc;">Yamim Noraim<span style="color: #444444;">.</span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thank you for reading,</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Libby</span></span></div>
Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-78115910469456753962016-06-21T16:47:00.000-07:002016-06-21T16:47:16.957-07:00Can You Help?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSG5B5XmGM-G4eZLN1Yt1P0xtOVQdtBKLh9t2ICb8bEaw3V1Z611R6XikdV2MC7BOIekNVLKcgHbsYiGP728HTaezn3R33aJXAuyZ7Lpo2gdizU3r0rYPJBBs4wp7kaX1iT6L3tu3UOUcK/s1600/6+16+Lake+Alpine+IMG_1111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSG5B5XmGM-G4eZLN1Yt1P0xtOVQdtBKLh9t2ICb8bEaw3V1Z611R6XikdV2MC7BOIekNVLKcgHbsYiGP728HTaezn3R33aJXAuyZ7Lpo2gdizU3r0rYPJBBs4wp7kaX1iT6L3tu3UOUcK/s400/6+16+Lake+Alpine+IMG_1111.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lake Alpine, CA</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We live in a very generous and warm hearted community. People give of their time; they open up their pocketbooks and give their money. We really have to. We are a small rural community and without getting into it, we just give. Living here, growing older, and learning more about the world has helped to alter how I feel about someone who is on the street asking for help. I didn't always want to offer help. Now I see things differently.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I drove home this afternoon from my day hiking at Lake Alpine, I passed through San Andreas and saw a man in front of the grocery street with a sign. The sign read, "Can you help?" He was in a wheelchair and sitting in the full sun; the temperature was at least 95 degrees outside. I had the opportunity to stop and didn't. I then had the opportunity to turn around and didn't. I drove off thinking I had missed something. The least I could do is go back and get him some water. There are places in town to get a meal too and I could tell him about that. By the time I got back, there was another man handing the man asking for a help a grocery bag. I could see that it was something to eat and drink. This made me feel much better somehow and I drove home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Though I missed giving directly to this individual, I feel like today I myself was given something. Witnessing God's hand at work through the generosity of the man that bought the groceries is part of the circle of helping one another. Give, receive, benefit, give, receive, benefit. I just never saw it this way until today. It helped me personally to see this generosity in action and I feel as if I was given a special gift. There are many ways to help and to be involved with what is happening around you. Just being aware of what is happening is part of this circle of giving. I hope to be quicker next time (I am sure that there will be a next time too) but until then, I will think about my unexpected gift.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span>Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-16271339022108415952016-04-07T03:58:00.002-07:002016-04-07T03:58:30.481-07:00The Road Less Traveled <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJOxLMDDyHXX4UvP4_IwmgfHmMc5I69vFNFB2XM2uuaKXPbimS2awpp1C97yUYdUB732d4eu9Tfuj5X6V4CTCW_2u_ewk-qPcjr35Jg6UHOivHgrQNKZnLxqjWZfWw5LwdwK-IyA08xOm/s1600/IMG_0603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJOxLMDDyHXX4UvP4_IwmgfHmMc5I69vFNFB2XM2uuaKXPbimS2awpp1C97yUYdUB732d4eu9Tfuj5X6V4CTCW_2u_ewk-qPcjr35Jg6UHOivHgrQNKZnLxqjWZfWw5LwdwK-IyA08xOm/s400/IMG_0603.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Brushy Peak Regional Preserve-photo by Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Take the road less traveled. This advice is meant to enrich our lives. It is applied to many things from traveling to bigger life choices. It can also apply to our everyday actions. So many of us get into a rut with how we relate to one another. It's easy to overlook simple kindnesses as a way of elevating ourselves and our fellow citizens at the same time; the road less traveled. We forget I think that h</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ow you relate to others is so important. It says as much about you and your character and outlook in life as it does about your feelings about your fellow man. Your interactions can be a mirror for what is best about being human: treating others as you yourself would wish to be treated. </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In <a href="http://www.onbeing.org/blog/parker-palmer-loaves-and-fishes-are-not-dead/8574">his column today, Parker Palmer</a> offers up a wonderful story about the road less traveled. He uses the biblical tale of the loaves and fishes to illustrate his point about how you treat your fellow man and how that attitude can be helpful in gaining some perspective on the larger situation at hand; how it can bring out the best in us. Read the story if you can and as you go about your business today, remember that even the simplest choices in speech and actions can be akin to taking the road less traveled. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thanks for reading,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">contact me: libbyfife@ymail.com</span><br /></div>
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-25715421855812036042016-03-26T08:30:00.000-07:002016-04-07T03:06:18.286-07:00The Unexpected<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGdjYtvCnzDIrs4BsxDyMFmEUMQa-oQW2maLghMZRXwMvudkjLBslvELz7yPZe9VZaVZcPDRL_930igPCb4ztf5WPjAcKEfq_YmVpfz3_sf5nZau2ljh97UgSmODOlPPi9ZW36aGNutt1/s1600/IMG_0581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGdjYtvCnzDIrs4BsxDyMFmEUMQa-oQW2maLghMZRXwMvudkjLBslvELz7yPZe9VZaVZcPDRL_930igPCb4ztf5WPjAcKEfq_YmVpfz3_sf5nZau2ljh97UgSmODOlPPi9ZW36aGNutt1/s400/IMG_0581.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hetch Hetchy Reservoir-Wapama Falls Hike</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This last week I received an unexpected gift. Sort of a gift within a gift within another gift! A friend invited me to go with her on a hike at Yosemite's Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. We would be hiking a 5.4 mile loop called the Wapama Falls Trail. Halfway through the loop you come upon a spectacular waterfall flowing down from the top of the mountain into the canyon and finally, to the reservoir below. It sounded like something that I would totally enjoy so I said yes to my friend right away.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My friend and I left early in the day and enjoyed a beautiful sunrise as we drove south and east towards Yosemite. Once there, the weather was perfect-cool and crisp with a light breeze. There weren't too many people and the trail was almost empty. The views of the dam and reservoir are spectacular and don't reveal at first just how big the Tuolumne River Canyon really is. Once you start walking however the canyon goes back and back and you wonder at the magnitude of the size of the valley that was flooded to create the reservoir. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The hike was going well but taking awhile. There are lots of rocks to go over and steps to go up and down. We were close to the waterfall but had a ways to go still. My friend and I talked about stopping and going back. She remarked to me that we should keep going because she felt that this was probably the last time she would be able to do this hike. She is 74, not old really but getting on, and who knows exactly when she might come back to this spot or be able to physically do it? So, we pressed on and were amply rewarded! What a beautiful waterfall! The photo above just doesn't do it justice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we were walking back I thought about what my friend said about making this trip, possibly for the last time. Though I am sure she didn't intend it this way, she really gave me a gift. This gift of spending the day with me, of all people, on what was probably her last visit to this spot was really special. And I had no idea that this was even going to be the case so it was a total surprise. Top that off with the views, the weather and the injury free day and I had a gift within a gift within a gift! Talk about appreciating God's presence in the every day!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hope that if you are reading that you find something unexpected today!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Libby</span></div>
Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-33829509877036144862016-02-12T03:52:00.001-08:002016-02-12T03:56:43.719-08:00Simple Reminders<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3gq1Bxv805NdO09At5pvT5pcENtIb_v-_gvdf9LV0igKNr64UPRUi5kAx0lmnM7TEHzF7ythg0hNlerkC16sgBaGue23Z6N4T-GHCiU2TdeAjJoo8GSQSCX5PMaujy3Pkp-ziJqn-PnY/s1600/IMG_0312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3gq1Bxv805NdO09At5pvT5pcENtIb_v-_gvdf9LV0igKNr64UPRUi5kAx0lmnM7TEHzF7ythg0hNlerkC16sgBaGue23Z6N4T-GHCiU2TdeAjJoo8GSQSCX5PMaujy3Pkp-ziJqn-PnY/s400/IMG_0312.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lake Alpine</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This week I had a few reminders that very often, less is more. The first reminder came in the form of the above photo. It is the image of one of my favorite places, Lake Alpine. I have only experienced that lake during the summer when it is green and lush. The lake has a lot of water in it, there are beautiful low bushes and shrubs along with birds and trees. There is a lot to take in each time I visit. This time, however, everything was covered in snow. Familiar forms were reduced to unrecognizable mounds of white fluffy powder. The horizon line of the lake merged with the water's surface until I couldn't really tell where one ended and one began. The entire effect was one of simplicity and wholeness, reduced down from an environment that is normally complex and very detailed. Still beautiful but very different.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The next experience came in the shape of a realization. A small project that I have been working on came to fruition. During its making I struggled with many things: detail, purpose of the project, what types of things would be appealing to the widest audience and in general, my own varying levels of self esteem. At one point I realized that less would be more. It took some back and forth emails with the person who was helping me to be able to realize what I was doing wrong. My approach was too complex and his input helped to reign in my focus. The project has been completed and I feel it is a good effort.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lastly, I observed someone composing a small and informal photo shoot of my work. I watched him arrange and rearrange the various objects. He kept things so simple, his experience telling him almost right away what was needed for the perfect arrangement. Oh, if only my own efforts were always so effortless! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I really did learn something from all three events: the simple beauty of a winter landscape has much in common with getting down to basics and the judicious use of mental editing. Each thing I experienced showed me that very often, less is more. And I relate that to how I want to experience God's hand in the world. I want to take notice of what seems to be ordinary or insignificant or just plain. I want to take in the simplicity of something and be appreciative of God's humble effort to please us. I do think that is what those places and moments and lessons are all about: it's God's effort to make us happy with His creations. His message to take notice of what might otherwise be passed up for lack of flash and hype. Pay attention to the basics and you will be amply rewarded.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Libby</span>Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-22872261340656879862016-02-03T05:41:00.001-08:002016-02-03T05:41:30.691-08:00The Blessing of Awareness<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbkx_BsF360DcqGV35urhBpI4gc5FUJh4zzw7ys09k0eQHaXhTPQAEHwA8oHS1jCfWgqGXkg_eTh3yAfuI8UOjgjb0nWMfmOWBAuF43YCVJw3H9BjNjAnXaIN__uB6Uae2YEOqSm8yAWc/s1600/IMG_0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbkx_BsF360DcqGV35urhBpI4gc5FUJh4zzw7ys09k0eQHaXhTPQAEHwA8oHS1jCfWgqGXkg_eTh3yAfuI8UOjgjb0nWMfmOWBAuF43YCVJw3H9BjNjAnXaIN__uB6Uae2YEOqSm8yAWc/s400/IMG_0174.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Moonstone Beach-Cambria, CA<br />photo by Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This morning, before I even opened my eyes, I had the most amazing revelation. It was such a clear thought first thing in the morning that I got up to write it down. For some time now, I have struggled with the question of why some people appear to be blessed and others do not. It's always troubled me since I have an innate sense of equality when it comes to the gifts that God bestows upon all of us. Why some people and not others? What could the reason be and can I know why? Can I really ever discern God's intent?</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It occurred to me that I have been looking at things in the wrong way. Being blessed isn't necessarily having something or being someplace special. It isn't a material thing. It's something that the majority of us can have, can obtain, regardless of our situations. I came to the conclusion that being blessed is being in a state of awareness. Not just cultivating a sense of appreciation either (though that helps) but physically being aware of what is around you, what is happening, and how those things bring you comfort and joy. It's an inclusive rather than exclusive definition of the word. And I can apply the idea across the board, can apply it to nearly all people regardless of their circumstances. I can imagine someone who maybe has very little believing that they are blessed in some way because frankly, they believe it. I wouldn't question that belief at all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The only thing that gives me pause is the idea that maybe I might be trying to justify my own situation. Could I still feel this way if everything was taken from me? I hope so but I am not sure. I know that there have been instances in my own life that have been less than optimal. During some of those times I have felt grateful and during some of the other times I have just felt bad for myself. Time passing though has helped me to see that I came out of the experience and things are fine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I include the above photo of the ocean because of how I felt that day when I took the picture. It was amazing to me that the ocean was there. I hadn't seen it in quite awhile. I felt blessed and lucky to be standing there as a witness to such a phenomenon. And it's that awareness that makes me feel blessed. Not the ocean itself per se but the fact that I could see it, take in its beauty, and be cognizant of the fact that it made me happy. What a gift all the way round.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span><div>
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-79226382030615757092016-01-13T04:16:00.000-08:002016-01-13T06:40:21.959-08:00The Ever Present Sun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Several days ago an acquaintance told me something awful that had happened to her. Her opening up to me about the event was a response to a question that I had innocently asked her. Never in a million years did I expect her to say what she said. My response to her statements was typical, even expected, and somewhat weak though not weakly felt on my part.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I tend to go over things in order to process them and to better understand my reactions. It has occurred to me that I missed an opportunity to be more understanding towards this person, and because of that, more fully present and human to myself. When someone tells you about a profound loss that they have suffered, you can feel completely inadequate to know how to respond: what to say, what to feel and what to do. It's the rare person I think who gets it all right the first time. And as I think about it I know that the terrible feelings I have reflect the fact that not only do I feel bad for this person (and my inability to express that) but I also know that I am not exempt from such an occurrence of tragedy myself. My time will come and then someone else will be standing with me, hearing me say something awful and that person may very well feel inadequate to help also. It's the human condition all the way round and when you come face to face with it, it is painful and somehow feels inevitable. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I said above, it takes me awhile to process things. The photo for this post was taken on my walk yesterday. It was wonderful to feel the sun on my face even in the midst of cloudy weather. Just to look up and know that the presence of light and warmth can be counted on even when the weather is cold. And this morning I made the connection with how it is that we comfort each other regardless of how "weak" our skills are in this department. It's the human condition, God's presence within us, that makes us want to say that not only are we sorry for someone else's loss but that we feel it keenly in every sense of the word; on every level even if we can't adequately express that. We are there and are present, just like the weak light and heat of the winter sun, regardless of how well we convey that presence.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span>Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-20180895359403362422016-01-01T14:42:00.002-08:002016-01-01T14:43:10.997-08:00In Praise of Visual Prayer<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Z9F-jz5NMe0zqbjGanVf9crmWJvxzO2oje0xTFP_Bf1Kz1Z49hEFOOC8lvxSYku7LY6jE8ZudVVM_GiO8FLYg-FPGcTY7h8C1fK-ZrR2oIV7FL2JasgULqDewStogmiv3lb0SNVu2R8j/s1600/IMG_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Z9F-jz5NMe0zqbjGanVf9crmWJvxzO2oje0xTFP_Bf1Kz1Z49hEFOOC8lvxSYku7LY6jE8ZudVVM_GiO8FLYg-FPGcTY7h8C1fK-ZrR2oIV7FL2JasgULqDewStogmiv3lb0SNVu2R8j/s400/IMG_0078.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">lake Hogan Water's Edge-Photo by Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This week as I stood down at the water's edge at Lake Hogan, I thought about how incredible it was that I was standing there in the first place. The photo shows ground that is normally submerged under water. The drought has lowered Hogan significantly. It's going to take years of runoff and rainfall to replenish the reservoir. Just on a whim, I decided to walk all the way down the hillside to stand right next to the water, right where just a year ago I would not have been able to stand. Really incredible, at least from my point of view. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I liken the whole experience to something that approaches religion, or religious feeling. Only, I don't really know how to describe this idea. But I know other people feel it. It's a sense of awe and wonder and the inability to put words to what you are feeling. You look around and can't believe what you are seeing: beauty, and history, and life and tons of things you can't possible understand but that you appreciate because of their very complexity and the fact that they are unknowable. You are simply grateful and overcome by the gifts around you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This week I read an article by Omid Safi, a regular contributor to the online "magazine" <i>On Being</i>. (<i>On Being</i> is more than a collection of articles though-they have wonderful podcasts as well as incredibly sensitive writers and contributors. It worth a look.) Mr. Safi's article can be found at this <a href="http://www.onbeing.org/blog/omid-safi-praise-song-for-wide-open-spaces/8294">link</a>. He describes perfectly (and certainly much more elegantly) the feelings I am mentioning. It's prayer that you might find in a book only it's not the written word. It's the landscape, the images before you which are the prayer. At least that is how I took the meaning. And it helped to know that it's OK to maybe not be able to form the words right away. It's enough to look and be grateful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span></div>
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-4362106570045287402016-01-01T14:34:00.000-08:002016-01-01T14:36:31.540-08:00In Praise of Visual Prayer<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOUjwH9R5xOedRql9NMKp_qt-9qu0EbQmWG-F_tn5t5Yo6Ti0tGZk6gic6grDGSmgTfjh1OhgKFbDZBEy6_EYjOuscMsRVhLVdSRz0_k-riCP-Rin5U2QlDfwGbkiq8kYRiss5UQY13LVE/s1600/IMG_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOUjwH9R5xOedRql9NMKp_qt-9qu0EbQmWG-F_tn5t5Yo6Ti0tGZk6gic6grDGSmgTfjh1OhgKFbDZBEy6_EYjOuscMsRVhLVdSRz0_k-riCP-Rin5U2QlDfwGbkiq8kYRiss5UQY13LVE/s400/IMG_0078.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lake Hogan-At The Water's Edge-photo by Libby Fife</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">This week as I stood down at the water's edge at Lake Hogan, I thought about how incredible it was that I was standing there in the first place. The photo shows ground that is normally submerged under water. The drought has lowered Hogan significantly. It's going to take years of runoff and rainfall to replenish the reservoir. Just on a whim, I decided to walk all the way down the hillside to stand right next to the water, right where just a year ago I would not have been able to stand. Really incredible, at least from my point of view. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I liken the whole experience to something that approaches religion, or religious feeling. Only, I don't really know how to describe this idea. But I know other people feel it. It's a sense of awe and wonder and the inability to put words to what you are feeling. You look around and can't believe what you are seeing: beauty, and history, and life and tons of things you can't possible understand but that you appreciate because of their very complexity and the fact that they are unknowable. You are simply grateful and overcome by the gifts around you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">This week I read an article by Omid Safi, a regular contributor to the online "magazine" <i>On Being</i>. (<i>On Being</i> is more than a collection of articles though-they have wonderful podcasts as well as incredibly sensitive writers and contributors. It worth a look.) Mr. Safi's article can be found at this <a href="http://www.onbeing.org/blog/omid-safi-praise-song-for-wide-open-spaces/8294">link</a>. He describes perfectly (and certainly much more elegantly) the feelings I am mentioning. It's prayer that you might find in a book only it's not the written word. It's the landscape, the images before you which are the prayer. At least that is how I took the meaning. And it helped to know that it's OK to maybe not be able to form the words right away. It's enough to look and be grateful.</span></div>
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-69081018177510652772015-12-23T07:25:00.002-08:002015-12-23T07:25:19.939-08:00Patience, The Seasons and the Passage of Time<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2EaXTZYGGEjbNgjFZHsQCkERgkQRPntkeggrl94SEsNkbYa-KTRecrFutXZqvIPPAMtd7kHC-J1y2kAsmhPVkIf_gDt4a6aHajkFlyRebRifB_cGnZ6iQQ7kdZcSV-M5Ojn1SViynJr7/s1600/12+15+Hogan+edit+IMG_0056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2EaXTZYGGEjbNgjFZHsQCkERgkQRPntkeggrl94SEsNkbYa-KTRecrFutXZqvIPPAMtd7kHC-J1y2kAsmhPVkIf_gDt4a6aHajkFlyRebRifB_cGnZ6iQQ7kdZcSV-M5Ojn1SViynJr7/s400/12+15+Hogan+edit+IMG_0056.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday as I took my walk I was treated to all sorts of new sights. It had rained steadily for most of the day on Monday and so much of the ground was still covered with puddles and other patches of standing water. Little streams of rainwater had cut their way through the gravel path and flowed slowly down towards the grassy hillside. All of the normally dry colors of the leaves, trees and rocks were made more brilliant by the water and gray skies. The entire park felt transformed.</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I readily admit that I tend towards anthropomorphism. I imagine the rocks and the water and the grasses and trees as being kind of human like. Silly, but I do it. To me, they seem like they are all patiently waiting for the inevitable. Everything will cycle back around eventually. Just wait for it. But how long will it take? As I walked along, I wondered if I could learn anything from inanimate objects that knew more about being patient than I can ever hope to know.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The picture above shows the little rivulet of water that now extends from the lake back towards the original path of the river. I wondered how long it would take to once again bring this man made lake to capacity. And I thought about the passage of time and waiting for things to happen. How, as humans, we really can't ever imagine what real waiting must be like. The kind of waiting that involves centuries and millenniums. The kind of waiting that rocks and trees and the earth itself does. The kind of waiting that God must do and must know about; something we can't fathom but that leads to a continuous cycle of renewal and promise. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, as the days now get longer, and as I wait for time to pass, I'll do the best that I can to be patient. I'll continue to go to the park and wait for the passing of seasons: winter, spring, summer and fall. I'll continue to watch the cycle of life and death that must be all around me there though maybe not visible to my eyes. Through observing nature in all of its seasons, I will continue to watch the renewal that God provides for all living things. And I will try to be patient, just like the trees and rocks around me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span></div>
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-43617699155095593542015-12-07T07:06:00.000-08:002015-12-07T07:06:09.273-08:00Snow, Light and Chanukkah<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7U99IUbel2D3CuQNQNdZlfVCxg7GYgizG-aIEn-qRH79VODfBLSdMkOGJh7PjOX6ghvYCA-1yvZlW1Djmnb3cxOyZRiOU3jR7F7Zlke25h4l9D1AvkilokmiFzq92ltvrbmNXg7ffpKH/s1600/Image0+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7U99IUbel2D3CuQNQNdZlfVCxg7GYgizG-aIEn-qRH79VODfBLSdMkOGJh7PjOX6ghvYCA-1yvZlW1Djmnb3cxOyZRiOU3jR7F7Zlke25h4l9D1AvkilokmiFzq92ltvrbmNXg7ffpKH/s400/Image0+%25285%2529.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Big Trees State Park-Photo by Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last night was the first night of Chanukkah. As is so often the case on Jewish holidays, I look for a way to relate the historical or biblical aspects of the holiday to my current everyday life. The light of the candles reminds me of the many ways in which God's illuminating light is present in our everyday lives. My recent hike showed me that God's illuminating presence is both obvious and not so obvious. </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am sharing the above photo that I took last week while out on a hike at Big Trees State Park up in Arnold. I live in the foothills of northern CA so a trip to the mountains (or close to them) is very doable. I normally go to the park during the spring and summer when it is warm. I am used to how the park looks at that time of year. Imagine my surprise when I arrived this time to find that the park had been blanketed in snow! Objects that were once familiar became a mystery to me. The snow obscured their familiar features so that I had to look very hard to figure out both where I was and what I was seeing. The walk was a real treat for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I lit the C</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">hanukkah candles last night I thought about the different ways in which God helps us to see. Specifically, I thought about how the snow brought the trees, rocks, and paths at the park into relief and caused me to see them in a new way. I felt like I was seeing something for the first time. Things were both hidden and revealed; familiar and unfamiliar. The light of the chanukkah candles is similar. It is both illustrative of a miracle but it also provides warmth and illumination during a cold and dark part of the year. God's light in our world is many faceted. And not always obvious but keep looking. It is there.</span></div>
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-8572072421060641072015-11-27T07:10:00.002-08:002015-11-27T07:18:46.681-08:00Just For Fun: Some Thoughts For Friday About Giving and Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjR60exHtfhLKQSVsI1vA6Vfr7FoxZxvAkOQImdmoAo4bp3HOZMWGzDcW9kgs7AhRTGdp9UPjdMcdLp9bvRhHaByjOFYhEd3vSGCSP0KdkZqeKF4S5QnLl2SsXCb0t269U_cfwc77mnpix/s1600/11+15+Sac+crop+IMG_1239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjR60exHtfhLKQSVsI1vA6Vfr7FoxZxvAkOQImdmoAo4bp3HOZMWGzDcW9kgs7AhRTGdp9UPjdMcdLp9bvRhHaByjOFYhEd3vSGCSP0KdkZqeKF4S5QnLl2SsXCb0t269U_cfwc77mnpix/s320/11+15+Sac+crop+IMG_1239.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">***This is just for fun. Prompted by an idea I had about giving someone your full attention; what that would be like. An idea about how to be expansive in what you offer to people. An idea about being gracious and giving without actually giving something of material value. Enjoy!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">****And no, I don't know anything about poetry!:)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I have time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here. Sit right here. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The sun will be warm</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tea? No, you wan't coffee right?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That's right. Milk with a little sugar.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That spoon? </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Thanks. It is a pretty pattern isn't it?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tell me. What happened?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Was there a lot of traffic?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">No, don't worry. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The machine will get it. Really.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Then what happened? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I wouldn't have guessed it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And then what? Wow. That's long isn't it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am sorry. That must hurt. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Maybe next time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sooner? Not that long then.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The sun is strong isn't it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">No, here. Let me get it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Keep talking, I am listening. Then what?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That's too funny! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Were you surprised? What did you think?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Me too. How funny.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Already? Wait. Just one more.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's only been a few minutes hasn't it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Wasn't there something else? Yes, that's right.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now I remember. You were there? Me too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">OK, then. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">No, really. Anytime.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here. There is plenty. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Don't forget these too. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It's a long way home. Be safe.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Honestly. Anytime. I have time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Libby</span><br />
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-50371745858181517482015-11-14T04:09:00.002-08:002015-11-14T04:09:21.823-08:00Ordinary Lives<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5SubYodtSUqqh7bCe26JpFOheUPeZmqd7VM_jMG-iL6CYKbweKMfJNZ2Q70H1nuPyD-qWdiQkmZBZCZO6WbglZuaYJwTmPrdMZbc4bbUZuaGZzyIIFOAvR-6sya60n8oX6GihZHKiOp2/s1600/11+15+backyard+sunset+crop+IMG_2557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5SubYodtSUqqh7bCe26JpFOheUPeZmqd7VM_jMG-iL6CYKbweKMfJNZ2Q70H1nuPyD-qWdiQkmZBZCZO6WbglZuaYJwTmPrdMZbc4bbUZuaGZzyIIFOAvR-6sya60n8oX6GihZHKiOp2/s320/11+15+backyard+sunset+crop+IMG_2557.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Earlier this week I learned that my neighbor's husband passed away in September. He was in his late seventies and had been sick for several years. Having met him once or twice and having spoken with his wife several times, I was sad to hear about such a sudden loss. They were both expecting him to pass away at some point I suspect but I can imagine that they thought they had more time. We all do.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Coinciding with the above is this lovely article, link <a href="http://www.onbeing.org/blog/living-through-death-love-at-the-end-of-marriage/7989">here</a>. The author writes eloquently of the special intimacy between couples, of the care that they give to one another and the lengths to which they will go to support and love each other at the end. Lives intertwined and enmeshed with one another. Where does one life end and the other begin after all of that time?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have a special love for the idea that we are all quiet witnesses to one thing or another but especially to each other. The author takes care to point this out-how important it is to notice what is happening around us; that which is manifested in the everyday activities of our friends and neighbors. Many, many of us live very ordinary lives. I can't help but believe that God's presence here in the lives of those of us just living very quietly is most important. Just as important as in the lives of those of us who do big things. It all matters. And if we just stop for a minute or two and pay attention, we can realize that we are the witness. We have a part to play too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span>Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-57884390163107593402015-10-30T04:21:00.002-07:002015-10-30T04:23:07.314-07:00Conceal and Reveal<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">New Melones Dam, Old Parrotts Ferry Bridge Now Revealed Due to Drought</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Earlier this month my SIL, BIL and I took a trip to visit the site of the New Melones Reservoir. The old bridge is now exposed due to a severe reduction in the level of the reservoir. The photo above shows an area that was once completely submerged under water. That bridge was covered for many, many years until now. To say that it was an awesome sight, something incredible to actually be a witness to, is a real understatement. Words don't begin to describe things. I will say however that I felt a certain "accidental privilege" in being able to witness something that otherwise would not be visible. This area was covered before I moved to the area and in fact, before I was born if I am not mistaken. I tried to keep these things in mind as I walked down into the reservoir. I felt that I should somehow be careful and I felt that my vocabulary was really inadequate to describe how I was feeling. It was as if the earth itself was being exposed to me somehow. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This morning I came across an article that somewhat underscores what I am getting at above. The article can be found <a href="https://thejesuitpost.org/2015/10/coming-out-of-the-dark/">here</a>. It's a short read and a good way of looking at just how vulnerable we all are when we open ourselves up to others. In this age of being able to readily share any and all information, I suspect many of us forget just how important that information really is; how we are changed when we reveal things. And conversely, how we change others at the same time when we open up to them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span><br />
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-31512640684165483732015-10-18T08:20:00.002-07:002015-10-18T08:23:20.922-07:00All Parts Together!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05aBfMg-kh5IxECh2mOrRcdhymuBGFppKVSELypaPyqsYsGx0Neb2AVjbTGxLATMxpSvN4TW1yfuLQxnVntlboMv9EeqzRwvLxFYJJY8469r0kcMWEh8G4CWXM6E83Az7__rYrzOl_2r_/s1600/10+15+hillside+cropIMG_2518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05aBfMg-kh5IxECh2mOrRcdhymuBGFppKVSELypaPyqsYsGx0Neb2AVjbTGxLATMxpSvN4TW1yfuLQxnVntlboMv9EeqzRwvLxFYJJY8469r0kcMWEh8G4CWXM6E83Az7__rYrzOl_2r_/s320/10+15+hillside+cropIMG_2518.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rain over our hillside-photo by Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>There is in all visible things … a hidden wholeness. —Thomas Merton</i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's always amazing to me when things seem to coincide with one another. Somehow it seems to suggest that underneath a world that sometimes looks like it is in chaos, there is actually an order of sorts that isn't always apparent. My personal beliefs tend to point towards the presence of something unseen, maybe not guiding events exactly, but certainly a driving force in the universe.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just recently, Jews all over the world completed the yearly Torah reading cycle. It's part of tradition to read the Torah from beginning to end each year. Though I have never done it, I did follow along this year thanks to weekly updates via the Internet. T</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">he regular events of the Torah give structure to the year and provide a sense of continuity.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;">And just as the Torah gives structure to the year, so do the seasons in their own way. They have their own regularity too of course. Summer leads to Autumn which leads to winter, etc. Yesterday we experienced some actual rainfall for the first time in months. After such a long and hot and dry summer I almost forgot that rain and cooler weather were possible. It felt like a miracle of some sort. It also helped me to remember that no matter what happens the seasons will continue to progress and cycle regardless of what I do and whether or not I am here. I may become discouraged by such dry weather but eventually, at least for now, some rainfall will eventually occur.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All of it makes me feel comforted, knowing that no matter what, things will continue to go on. All of the disparate parts, both the ones that I can see and the ones that I can't see, will be gathered together to create a whole. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span></div>
Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-76351348135230514492015-10-06T16:39:00.000-07:002015-10-06T16:39:02.873-07:00Light of Life and Blessings<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoxNOlOyhmk-cVfbJJ_uOWCNBuKRPcD_zY6Ki3PkrqlbYVd5NIqQJAYAEKSERIWfWKGZwHLeq1IVkRqUpsGqYwTyMVG78IObuL9q21H9AQKUhcpuoOuIdV1-Ta5iICssaY9OXUN-V-Hf9z/s1600/10+15+Big+Trees+1+IMG_2429+adj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoxNOlOyhmk-cVfbJJ_uOWCNBuKRPcD_zY6Ki3PkrqlbYVd5NIqQJAYAEKSERIWfWKGZwHLeq1IVkRqUpsGqYwTyMVG78IObuL9q21H9AQKUhcpuoOuIdV1-Ta5iICssaY9OXUN-V-Hf9z/s320/10+15+Big+Trees+1+IMG_2429+adj.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Big Trees Park-North Grove</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv67slOvY-MtRRd5bsaZoPJeAcGcY5Cgr3f3UN0ffV1ZaWJYwT_CEtDOJMS2WXl1Qge786OFFERezAHNAUC-i3J241gcor1CoRbQhxrO-up9QJ6lGYGJRBDOa605NlxLqanqHlM2mOo-UX/s1600/10+15+Big+Trees+2+IMG_2405+adj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv67slOvY-MtRRd5bsaZoPJeAcGcY5Cgr3f3UN0ffV1ZaWJYwT_CEtDOJMS2WXl1Qge786OFFERezAHNAUC-i3J241gcor1CoRbQhxrO-up9QJ6lGYGJRBDOa605NlxLqanqHlM2mOo-UX/s320/10+15+Big+Trees+2+IMG_2405+adj.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Big Trees Park-Stanislaus River</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvTVvOsQbMVmqoFAWRraz4V50DBl5KeyDKRrCT1bEorE_YRrnbaW0B6ncCji3V2lxkvR-SmCOKE7utlsaXm1dFNUSPaCvEl8igbESH2fBdAbKdLEWZWXSK_kdqPvQ1ucHcTLf9L2A_d5cn/s1600/10+15+Hogan+1+IMG_2438+adj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvTVvOsQbMVmqoFAWRraz4V50DBl5KeyDKRrCT1bEorE_YRrnbaW0B6ncCji3V2lxkvR-SmCOKE7utlsaXm1dFNUSPaCvEl8igbESH2fBdAbKdLEWZWXSK_kdqPvQ1ucHcTLf9L2A_d5cn/s320/10+15+Hogan+1+IMG_2438+adj.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lake Hogan-Fiddleneck Boat Launch</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5iV50mlSf0-YIROmI4q91xhmjFrT2Z5Isn80ms-637YQfaRUsouNXhSNgnIRJntj27ujXLkVd7ptPk9fM0QKf9qmvA780zeXlzhcbG7G9bZWI8RjHgdGF3T930Xu2NtkDXXg5EPJXQIf/s1600/10+15+Hogan+2+IMG_2443+adj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5iV50mlSf0-YIROmI4q91xhmjFrT2Z5Isn80ms-637YQfaRUsouNXhSNgnIRJntj27ujXLkVd7ptPk9fM0QKf9qmvA780zeXlzhcbG7G9bZWI8RjHgdGF3T930Xu2NtkDXXg5EPJXQIf/s320/10+15+Hogan+2+IMG_2443+adj.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lake Hogan-Inspiration Point/Old Dam</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the past, when I have heard people say that they are blessed, I have always been a little reluctant to embrace both the term and the sentiment. To me, that word implies that the person has something that someone else doesn't have. Or that they somehow were given more than the next person. Then there is the quandary of who gave them that extra bit in the first place? </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, it's a limited and childish view I know but I offer it up as food for thought.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today I did two things worth mentioning. I visited my friend in San Andreas whose house burned down in the fire. In telling her that I didn't know what to say or do, she said that she had our friendship. That was a blessing to me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The second thing was that I went to Big Trees State Park for my walk. I love the drive to the park. It takes me through such diverse countryside all in the space of about an hour. It occurred to me as I was driving home that I was blessed to live in such a place as this, Calaveras County, where I could see so much with just a short drive. These views and experiences in my landscape are a blessing to me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If those things are blessings, which I believe they are, then how do I square that with the experiences of others who maybe don't have the same things or opportunities? I came to the conclusion that it wasn't what you had or what you did that was the blessing. It is the <i>awareness</i> of those things and not the things themselves per se. It just can't be about material objects or monetary advantage or good health or whatever. It has to be about an awareness of what is making you happy-what is there in the everyday even if it doesn't seem like much.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am including two links below. Take a minute to read and listen. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sissel_Kyrkjeb%C3%B8">Sissel</a>, a Norwegian soprano, sings like an angel. Her voice has been described as having a "crystalline" quality and that is an apt image of what she sounds like singing this song below. Read the lyrics too which at first seem hard but can actually be seen as positive, perhaps even a blessing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">link-lyrics: V<a href="https://latinisenglish.wordpress.com/2008/03/28/vitae-lux-light-of-life/">itae Lux (</a>Light of Life)-Sissel</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">link-Video-<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWnT4F7JpAM">Sissel singing Vitae Lux </a>(well worth it!)</span></div>
<br />Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-67356595040197404682015-09-28T04:31:00.002-07:002015-09-28T04:31:35.296-07:00Good and Bad, Together at Last<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkiSxOalHnkqZZ_OetLk91PvYsdxYtLIv7Z9DEef9GxbG1-bjStX6FZiX5aYK45S2aDBq8mIVOttifYqWXzvyRJ_oz0cre0YY8swFicSUhu5jZ_1bvt9h6UzqKZ-tBq8Q4CxNolEFnSk0/s1600/9+15+backyard+sunrise+crop+IMG_2351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkiSxOalHnkqZZ_OetLk91PvYsdxYtLIv7Z9DEef9GxbG1-bjStX6FZiX5aYK45S2aDBq8mIVOttifYqWXzvyRJ_oz0cre0YY8swFicSUhu5jZ_1bvt9h6UzqKZ-tBq8Q4CxNolEFnSk0/s400/9+15+backyard+sunrise+crop+IMG_2351.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Backyard at sunrise-photo by Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Autumn is really my favorite time of year. The cool mornings make up for days that can still be hot. Rain can appear from nowhere and the next day will be sparkling and crisp. It's a time of transition to shorter days where the darkness begins to encroach on the light. Certain trees begin to change color and lose their leaves while their neighbor trees remain beautifully green and lush. There really is quite a lot to appreciate among the aspects of the season that seem so different from one another.</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My husband and I were recently talking about the visit to the United States by Pope Francis. It was uncharacteristic of my husband to ask me this question but he wanted to know what I would say to the Pope if I was to meet him. It was easy to come up with something that I would like to know: why do both good and bad things happen? If all things come from God then how does tragedy befall the innocent while the wicked seem to escape unharmed? What kind of God sets that sort of stuff in motion? Or does he even do that? Why does he allow it to happen? Or is that even the case?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While I am not the first to ask this question, and I certainly won't be the last, I do have the beginnings of an answer. Or at least a word to describe the coexistence of two seemingly opposite conditions or events. The word is "paradox" and I recently ran across two examples of how the word can be used to describe God's given condition of both good and bad existing at the same time. Others write much better than I do and so I am providing two links to two separate articles. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sharon Salzberg: <i><a href="http://www.onbeing.org/blog/sharon-salzberg-it-all-happens-and-nothing-lasts/7936">It All Happens and Nothing Lasts</a></i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Parker Palmer: <i><a href="http://www.onbeing.org/blog/parker-palmer-autumn-a-season-of-paradox/7938">Autumn: a Season of Paradox</a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I enjoy the writing of both of these authors and so if you have time and have questions like I do, these essays are worth the read. The articles don't answer the question of why or even provide relief from the idea that bad things happen to good people, but they do provide a framework for understanding and accepting that both the good and the bad happen together. You can't have one without the other. And all good things got to come to an end (to quote <a href="http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/jacksonbrowne/allgoodthings.html">Jackson Browne!)</a> and that it can be OK.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span></div>
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-19596146610312002212015-09-24T14:27:00.002-07:002015-09-24T14:27:34.302-07:00Peace Like a River-It is Well With My Soul<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoNIURAToEwAAwFb-B51N2oqyw7GPxFA9mI9olZyqaCxgQy65svAAwQcIXg7ZxHTzvoBjtcx_lbkiZvn5AawbGvM3YZ-nidWEN41fZeyhaBRi_kzwlNA5b8oi8nWbop9jYCotRgnc_vdYm/s1600/9+15+Satnislaus+River+IMG_1083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoNIURAToEwAAwFb-B51N2oqyw7GPxFA9mI9olZyqaCxgQy65svAAwQcIXg7ZxHTzvoBjtcx_lbkiZvn5AawbGvM3YZ-nidWEN41fZeyhaBRi_kzwlNA5b8oi8nWbop9jYCotRgnc_vdYm/s400/9+15+Satnislaus+River+IMG_1083.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Stanislaus River-Big Trees Park-photo by Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our county has experienced a tremendous firestorm. The <a href="http://cdfdata.fire.ca.gov/incidents/incidents_details_info?incident_id=1221">Butte fire</a> started September 9th and is still not totally contained. For about a week, I spent my time cycling back and forth between FB and several local news sites. FB was the worst because that is just some raw and uncensored reporting. Cal Fire's site was bad too because of the statistical (clinical) nature of that delivery. It was all bad. </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The one thing that I have learned both with this fire and with other traumatic events experienced over the last several years, is that everyone copes with stress and tragedy in their own way. One person's way might seem cold or calculating while another person's way might appear to be too emotional. Everyone has their own style and it is important for your own sanity to keep this in mind.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With that said, I hit my own personal limit late last week. I needed to get out and go somewhere else. I chose one of my favorite spots (and a place where there was no smoke), Big Trees State Park in Arnold. Though it was in the path of the fire, the area was unharmed. The fire never reached that far. And the smoke in the air was gone, prevailing wind direction aiding in that blessing. I hiked my favorite trail, looked in the visitors' center and drove on to the south area of the park. I love the Stanislaus river, the limited amount that I can see without some serious hiking. I parked my car and walked down a wooden staircase to take the above shot. As I stood looking at the river and listened to the various sounds, I realized just how much I needed this little bit of peace. I was filled with a sense of extreme gratitude that I was able to stand there at that moment and experience just a bit of God's gift. Just to be aware of it and to think about it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As I wrote above, everyone handles stress in their own way. And for those who haven't gotten relief yet, I hope it comes soon. I pray that it comes soon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In reference to the title, please see <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/It_Is_Well_with_My_Soul">this link</a> to a wonderful hymn, <i>It is Well With My Soul. </i>Please take a moment to read about its author, Horatio Spafford</span><br /></div>
Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-14681693110077389552015-09-22T04:58:00.002-07:002015-09-22T07:33:40.875-07:00Yom Kippur: Are You Really Sorry?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxUpQ1_P-qUt2J1tPf-QXnsaFhopOyWXHISQutFkI6x6MFMwZC3tJmHr9tpR_X8tHrVUjx_39Qj6r3Jm_UnJjecpDB4N_4d8x7qgMSNBMyWdK5GepU_63bg_FMXaLopm5_SUo0WvGIwQNR/s1600/9+15+backyard+tree+view+IMG_2346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxUpQ1_P-qUt2J1tPf-QXnsaFhopOyWXHISQutFkI6x6MFMwZC3tJmHr9tpR_X8tHrVUjx_39Qj6r3Jm_UnJjecpDB4N_4d8x7qgMSNBMyWdK5GepU_63bg_FMXaLopm5_SUo0WvGIwQNR/s400/9+15+backyard+tree+view+IMG_2346.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Backyard view-early AM-photo by Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My religious views and practices are a mash up of my own chosen religion, Judaism, and concepts and teachings pulled from other religions. To my mind, it's all part and parcel of one thing: worship of and reverence for God and the world that he has provided for us. It makes no difference to me where the ideas come from so long as I understand them, accept them and apply them. I have heard this way of believing called something like a "supermarket" style of belief; picking and choosing what you want from a shelf filled with available pieces from your own religion and perhaps too from other religions or ways of belief. This method involves a selectivity that implies something negative such as saying you are religious while not attending services regularly. The implication is that overall, you are practicing your religion wrong because you don't fully practice it on all levels. There is an element of hypocrisy which is of course an extremely pejorative term. Well, too bad is what I say! I am not sorry for how I do things.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And not being sorry of course leads me to the approaching day, the Day of Atonement known as Yom Kippur in the Jewish holiday cycle. This is <i>the </i>day to be sorry of all days throughout the year. It's an extremely serious and solemn time for Jews everywhere. The entire set of the two holidays, known as The Days of Awe, are a real mix of joy, discovery, thankfulness and sincere feelings. Rosh Hashanah begins the time of personal reflection, of reviewing where a person has gone wrong, and of trying to make sincere amends with the hope of getting things right in the coming year. By the time Yom Kippur rolls around, a person has to have made corrections and believe that things are on the right track. You have to mean it too and put your plan into action because by today, the day of Atonement, God is making a final verdict on your fate. And in fact, your fate will be sealed in God's book! You'd better have it together because this is serious!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">With that in mind, as I mentioned above, I am <i>not</i> sorry for how I practice my beliefs. I am of course truly sorry when I fall short of thinking and doing, when I miss opportunities and when I don't fully engage with all of the gifts I have been given. When I wrong someone, I really try and fix that act. Being mindful to begin with, taking time to look around and appreciate, and trying to do for others in my own way are all things that I feel add to the equation. For those things, I will always try and improve each day in some small way. And I hope that is pleasing and acceptable to God because to me, it feels just fine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Rather than face today with regrets or fear, I will focus on being sure and positive. If you have belief in the idea that you are getting it right most of the time, I think a person can feel OK.<i> G'Mar Hatimah Tovah: May you be sealed for a good year. </i>Simply put for everyone, may the upcoming year be a good and happy one!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Libby</span></div>
Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-63674043950235205272015-09-20T08:18:00.001-07:002015-09-20T09:39:04.882-07:00Some Thoughts on Acceptance<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiP81uPC9Mrh941Jh3AJnPG27Ra0ShbL7guOJXk1EkAhSxQxQYE7Qw9dorKEBTo8gN8HO0kZG76W0mZ4df0m-mPU48PL2Yn_q5r_JkPVHGorI_AiGwwXgPxE2edwOSq_z_Igha7-M7BplX/s1600/IMG_2357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiP81uPC9Mrh941Jh3AJnPG27Ra0ShbL7guOJXk1EkAhSxQxQYE7Qw9dorKEBTo8gN8HO0kZG76W0mZ4df0m-mPU48PL2Yn_q5r_JkPVHGorI_AiGwwXgPxE2edwOSq_z_Igha7-M7BplX/s400/IMG_2357.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">View over back hillside-early AM-photo by Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This past week has been one of slow acceptance. The firestorm that has been raging in our county is now down to a very low roar. From reading the news, it seems as if people have been slowly returning to their properties. Whether or not those properties are still standing seems to be a toss up. Some areas that were devastated by the fire stand right next to other areas that were spared. Some people lost everything and some people only lost an outbuilding or a car. It's incomprehensible what happened here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are more tangible things to grasp onto however. The smoke in the air has cleared and the smell is slowly dissipating. The weather is gradually cooling as we move towards Autumn. There is a noticeable crispness in the air. As I walked in our backyard this morning looking for photo opportunities, I reflected on the fact that much of life is about the acceptance of both the good and the bad coexisting. We had dinner with our family last night. They have two of their friends staying with them who are victims of the fire. They lost everything. Absolutely everything except the clothes in their suitcases and whatever they were wearing. It's beyond my ability to understand. And theirs too I imagine. Yet, there has to be acceptance. The worst has happened and what do you do? Rage against it? It's already come and gone. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I find it somewhat helpful to recall something that I read years ago. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_Kushner">Rabbi Harold Kushner</a>, noted author and progressive conservative Jew, wrote a book called <i>When Bad Things Happen To Good People</i>. My take from the book is that bad things are not a judgement or an omen or retribution from God. They are just part of what's what in this lifetime; what constitutes the human condition. That's very hard to accept and yet, I do accept the explanation. I imagine that God is just as offended at awfulness and grieves just as much in the face of tragedy and human suffering as we all do. His presence and partnership is the comfort. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And as I look at my beautiful backyard and cherish what I have right now, I know that my time will come too. I will have to accept the bad along with the good; the up and the down at the same time. It makes me want to hold on to things just a little bit tighter and with much greater awareness and acceptance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Libby</span></div>
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Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1351666294325562700.post-35887655371742013202015-09-14T12:17:00.002-07:002015-09-14T12:17:46.090-07:00Shanah Tovah! Keep Looking Up!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfofklR66RPcMzgwxodhP2gPNrOTQyNTVreJr7xAUoAd1PqeIkHEm7w0xHnk0m8uAyGZ8k0_hLkicyN1YW70ibrpGQjGlrDXL0xWZkCGfAr7T780ymhr_HsjOVGSArKls3-0PR2PIPOg-U/s1600/9+14+15+crop+1+IMG_2265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfofklR66RPcMzgwxodhP2gPNrOTQyNTVreJr7xAUoAd1PqeIkHEm7w0xHnk0m8uAyGZ8k0_hLkicyN1YW70ibrpGQjGlrDXL0xWZkCGfAr7T780ymhr_HsjOVGSArKls3-0PR2PIPOg-U/s320/9+14+15+crop+1+IMG_2265.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sky Over My Home-Libby Fife</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As I look towards the heavens on this holiday of Rosh Hashanah, all I can do is wonder. Questions with no immediate answers seem to fill my brain until my head hurts! I wonder if we will get any rain? Our state is suffering from a terrible drought and my county, along with other areas in California, is terribly affected by huge wildfires. I wonder about the way things work. It's overwhelming for me to consider that my husband and I woke up in our own home today, safe and sound, while others not far from us are not as lucky. I honestly don't know what to make of any of it or how to make sense out of something so awful.</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thinking of that little bit of blue poking through the sky however, I am reminded that renewal and hope and maybe even some answers are possible. Understanding? Maybe. Forgiveness? Perhaps. Clarity in the face of things that are beyond my grasp? I am not sure. Does life continue to go on whether you like it or not? Yes, it does. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And so as I take the time to reflect on this holiday and to consider where I have gone wrong this last year and how I can fix things and about the state of things right now, I wonder about what really matters. What can I grasp on to that will help? I hope that if I keep looking upward and all around me that the answers will come to me eventually. After all, the New Year has started. Shanah Tovah to all reading. Happy New Year and may it be a blessed one for all of us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Libby</span><br /></div>
Libby Fifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13532162740012986996noreply@blogger.com1