Subtle Hope

Our walks in the evening are filled with brilliant color and easy southern breezes. I enjoy them. Even when the skies promise rain, beauty is everywhere and my heart is lifted.

But they began a subtle change.

Almost unnoticed at first for it was as natural as each step, each breath, each heartbeat.


I heard a baby cry from a house as I turned the corner.

Lord, please help these parents know what to do for their precious baby. May they have patience.

A neighbor down the street no longer relaxed outside for a quick visit about church. His wife now lives inside the house . . . alone.

Lord, please help this couple in trouble. Guide them together.

A father lost his temper over his little boy and spoke accusations, throwing his keys in anger.

Lord, please deliver this boy from the pain we cannot see. Help him.

A grandmother's voice through opened windows, frustrated and tired from raising small children when it should be her time to rest. 

Lord, please give this grandma the strength and stamina she needs. Bless her.

The sound of children's laughter and the splash of pool-play no longer heard next door. One parent and child left of this blended family to live quietly; no longer available for short bursts of conversation. 

Lord, please, another family in need of Your help. Make a way for us to share once again.

A neighbor of many years betrayed a friendship. Their door stays shut now. 

Lord, please show me how to deal with this, and show me how I can learn to forgive. 


Every walk reveals a new need. A new plea. A new Hope.


Brilliant sunsets and easy southern breezes still cover my neighborhood . . .

So does One other . . .

Along side each step, each breath and each heartbeat.






May this day, this evening, this night, hold peace of heart, joy in spirit and all things possible abundantly above all you could ever ask or think.