seasons

Years ago I saw a tree that marked my soul. Now all other trees get measured by that one. Everything else is compared to this mental image that I have of this luminated beauty in all its fabulous fall regalia. So far none have ever compared.

The first year I moved here (WI) I caught (about) 10 Muskie and 10 big Norther Pike. Nothing has compared since. This year was pretty dismal as far as gettin it done out on the lakes. The season is ending. I'm running outta time! Once again old man winter is shuffling slowly into town. I hate to hear those footsteps.

Sometimes I feel like I have locked myself into a room of discontentment. What is it that drives me to always be looking for the next best thing? There are times When I have unplugged from that pursuit and have felt contentment, appreciation and simplicity come back to me.

The seasons are going to change in my life again. I have never been more aware of how precious time is. I am deploying to Iraq soon. Very soon I will not have time each day to spend with my family. I don't want this change. I am content here. I am happy. Couldn't the Lord just move things around so I wouldn't have to go?

I think I know what is best for me, for my life! I know what I need the most...Don't I? The folly of this whole line of thinking seems so obvious to me when I'm writing about it or talking to someone else about it but in my day to day life I still struggle with acknowledging who is responsible for best moments of my life. I still struggle with giving God glory for the things he has made and the things he has provided.

If I am happy it is because of him. If I see the world's most beautiful tree it was a gift from him and if I catch anything while fising it is because of his wisdom and grace.

Failing to move forward with the Lord, when he leads causes great discontentment.
When we follow the Isrealites we see this in their wonderings. I don't want us to get stuck in this trap. Lead on! Lord I will follow.

Proverbs 19:23 "The fear of the LORD leads to life: Then one rests content, untouched by trouble" (NIV).
Philippians 4:11-12 "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation" (NIV).