<p>by Christine Krause</p> <p>I look out at the still water on a cool morning<br /> Letting the sun cast its warmth on my shoulders<br /> Where the voices of others bolster my feelings of gratitude<br /> Of a God that loves without doubt fear or reproach</p> <p>I visit the winters of my life<br /> Where dark shadows have crept in<br /> Because life happens at its own bidding<br /> Not mine<br /> Out of those depths I see glimmers<br /> Smiles from friends<br /> Encouragement from fellow travelers<br /> God&rsquo;s all encompassing grace</p> <p>Summer is a gift like the precious laugh from a child<br /> Gone are the trappings of gloom<br /> Replaced with bonds so strong no force can separate<br /> Happiness rises in unexpected circumstances<br /> Peace settles in and takes root<br /> Joy is present at dawn and dusk<br /> Even the night brims with beauty<br /> Excitement fills the air at the sounds of play</p> <p>Thoughts of autumn and its colors fire my soul<br /> Hurriedly I prepare<br /> Think about time duties preparation gray clouds<br /> Let the past be<br /> Embrace the changes<br /> Excitement burns inside<br /> Peace enters in and relaxes my thoughts<br /> Life carries on and I learn to wait</p> <p>Spring leaps up as newness enters<br /> Hopefulness replaces the lingering doubts<br /> Seeds are planted and grow in the splendor of lengthening days<br /> God&rsquo;s abundance is seen bounding from all directions<br /> Where to take this energy and use it to bless others<br /> No strangers new friends common threads<br /> Sent out to be strength and possibilities<br /> Giving everything with memories to last</p> <p>Our bodies our spirits<br /> Gathering together as one leaving with renewed hope<br /> Water stones oil and flowers combine<br /> Forming newness</p>