What is Beauty?

Beauty – we all admire the aesthetic and beautiful in both people and nature, though beauty is in the eye of the beholder they say.  Often, as our young girls strive to be beautiful, they imitate the actresses and models they admire on the “silver screen” or magazine covers.  But, too often our young girls fail to realize the images are fake, made more beautiful and glamorous by much makeup and the air brush, not a true reality beauty.  And, a pretty face may not always have a heart of love.  So, what is beauty?  And how do we define it?

There’s an old-fashioned philosophy which I think still holds true today.  “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as [elaborate hairstyles] and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”  (I Peter 3:3-4 NIV)

With those words in mind, when we give of ourselves to benefit others, a depth of beauty is seen through the glow of an unselfish act… with a genuine love for others.  We show true character by reaching out to help those in need, especially those who cannot pay us back for such a free gift.  It’s a heart of humility, with grace and gentleness, that shines brightly when we don’t call attention to ourselves… and quietly go about living a life of peace by showing honor and respect to all we meet on our path.

And what is the opposite of love’s beauty?  The generous airs put on to cover that which has been defiled… airs to disguise a selfish attitude of pride leading to self-centeredness and greed.

Which brings us back to our question, what is beauty?  Smiles to brighten someone’s day.  A helping hand to those in need.  Sharing the truth with humility.  Generous acts of kindness strewn among friends and strangers.  An unfading gentle spirit of love and peace found within the selfless heart.  Therein lies true beauty…

What is Beauty?

Linda A. Roorda

What is beauty if the heart is shallow

Where is glamor when rudeness takes charge

And what is charm with selfish desire

For what is love but the giving of self?

~

What then are words when the mind deceives

What is character with rebellious soul

Why enticing lures to captivate hearts

For what is virtue but integrity’s truth?

~

What is kindness if the tongue reviles

And what is honor without reputation

Or the humble soul if boastful and proud

For what is grace but gentle elegance?

~

What is adornment when respect has fled

What are principles if deceit is the core

What is esteem when self is worth more

For what is honor but morality’s judge?

~

What then is beauty but innocence pure

The charm and grace of respectful repute

Humility’s stance with integrity’s honor

For what is beauty but the gift of self?

~~

10/25/16

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~

Rejected

Have you known what it’s like to be rejected?  To feel the pain of mocking ridicule?  We hear the news about our nation’s youth who shoot and kill their peers, or even commit suicide because their peers have mocked and bullied them, physically or verbally abused them, or said hateful nasty words to them, and it breaks our hearts.  Yet, haven’t we said things at times that we regret… words which have hurt someone else… perhaps in retaliation for how deeply we were hurt?

Sadly, my husband felt the sting of rejection and mocking while growing up.  Being legally blind, Ed had to get really close to read any print.  In seventh grade, he would have his head bashed into his locker by big strong black guys from the football team… until his brother, Marv, stepped in.  Since their lockers were side by side, Marv would walk ahead of Ed and work the combination on the lock so that when Ed got there, all he had to do was take hold of the handle and open his locker.  Brotherly teamwork!

Kids can be so cruel to each other.  It’s a difficult and painful subject for all of us.  But we need to look deep into our own hearts to see our own prejudices, our failings, our pride… and the hurtful words that erupt from the depths of our pain at times.  It’s not a shameful thing to admit and apologize for our wrongs, and then to ask for forgiveness.  It heals the wounds and restores relationships.

Back when we were dating, Ed shared his story of rejection with me.  He loved sports, especially football, and dreamed of making the team.  Out to practice he went every evening with his brother – after late afternoon milking chores, that is.  On the day positions and uniforms were handed out, Marv made the team but Ed did not.  Talk about disappointment!  No one in football management had the courage to tell Ed he would not be allowed to play football.  Not one of the main coaches he’d worked with had the guts to tell him after all the time he’d faithfully spent practicing.  But who did?  The assistant JV football coach (who also happened to be the swim team coach) told him he couldn’t play due to the risks of injury.  Talk about “passing the buck”!

So, since he loved to swim, Ed decided to try out for the swim team.  Again, he went through all the rigors of practice, while making sure he also did his fair share of barn chores, of course.  When the list was posted of those who made the team, Ed once again found his name missing.  Feeling totally dejected, he turned to walk away… just as the team’s former manager told Ed the coach wanted to see him in the office.  That was when the swimming coach offered the manager’s position to Ed, plus all the swim time he wanted at practice… with one catch.  Because of his poor vision, he would not be able to participate in swim meets for fear he might stray from his lane and either hurt himself or someone else.

Being a strong farm lad of nearly his final 6 feet 7 inches, Ed had a powerful fast stroke, could stay under water a long time, swam like a pro, and never strayed from his lane in practice.  But, graciously accepting the position of Equipment Manager and Scorekeeper for home meets, he did an excellent job for the team which went on to win Section 9 championship two years in a row for their high school in Orange County, New York.

Which brings us full circle… and to our Lord who never rejects us.  Just as Moses told Joshua and the Israelites that God would go with them into the Promised Land, we, too, can “Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:7)  We can face those who mock us.  We can stand up to bullies and move forward with our head held high.

Because when we come to God in our failures and rejections, He welcomes us, and walks beside us.  He’s there to help us find a better way or give us a better friend when we face ridicule and rejection.  He will forgive our own wrongs and heal our deep wounds, allowing us to go and do likewise… to offer love and healing to those we have hurt, and to those who have offended us.  But, forgiveness does not mean returning to a bullying or harmful relationship unless the offender truly recognizes their wrongs and mends their ways.  Don’t take revenge… turn that rejection into something good, and bless the offender instead!

Rejected

Linda A. Roorda

Why’dja pick him?  We don’t want her!

Not on our team!  We want to win!

To feel the pain rejection brings

Is to know I don’t fit, and I’m not wanted.

~

But let me show you what I can do

Tho I may not be the same as you.

I have feelings and cry the pain

All I ever want is just to belong.

~

I want to be liked for who I am

Not just to be what you want me to be.

Walk in my shoes, understand my hurt.

See from your soul, care from your heart.

~

Why do you mock?  What troubles you?

Is there a pain down deep in your soul?

Does it feel good to harm another?

Someone imperfect, someone unlike you?

~

Then take your hurt, your sorrow and pain

Turn it for good, to others show love

That within your heart healing may be found

Resting in grace, God’s goodness to share.

~~

11/21/13

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~~

Daydreams

Daydreams…we all have them.  But, what we each might dream about is obviously as different as we are… for dreams are at the core of our individuality and uniqueness.  By definition, daydreams detach us from the present.  They might be momentary fleeting thoughts, or a longer intentional refuge from reality.

Sometimes, daydreams are like watching a few lazy clouds pass serenely through the sky above.  Sometimes, they’re like those magnificent billowing thunderhead clouds of a gathering storm, as thoughts wrestle to resolve an issue, or perhaps as you struggle deciding which direction to take.  Sometimes, dreams are of creative designs or embellishments that lead to an invention we couldn’t live without.  And sometimes, they’re the longings of a heart for something more… a dream to overcome a disability… or to simply succeed at whatever life hands us.

After writing this poem, I was reminded of a book I’d read recently.  It was about a young Pakistani girl, Maria Toorpakai… someone who wanted more out of life than the expected.  From an early age, she dreamed of more than the hidden life of a girl who felt ashamed to be who she was born to be.  Publicly presenting herself as a boy simply to get an education and play the sports she loved, encouraged in her endeavors by her parents, she became actively involved in life, not hidden away from the world.  Facing strong male competition and resentment, with a fierce determination and love of the sport, she became her nation’s top squash player.  But, it came with a price when her gender was learned on applying to college.  With threats against herself and her family, and years of fleeing those Taliban’s threats, Maria eventually found assistance.  Jonathon Power, the first North American named the world’s top squash player, sent her an offer she couldn’t refuse.  Resettling in Power’s native Canada, Maria began training and competing at an international level with all due respect given for her talents.

Read more in “A Different Kind of Daughter – The Girl Who Hid from the Taliban in Plain Sight” by Maria Toorpakai and Katharine Holstein.  The initial part of the book read a bit laborious to me, but it soon became a book I didn’t want to set down.

Daydreams… of where they can take us, and the good they can bring to others…

Daydreams

Linda A. Roorda

Like a gentle breeze, a wind blowing free

Are thoughts and ideas that randomly roam

Within the great halls and echoes of time

Bearing a vestige to presence of mind.

~

Restless reverie on wings soaring high

A pulsing of thoughts from reality’s screen

Punctured and framed by fragmented scenes

Of treasured gems retrieved from the past.

~

This contemplation draws deeper inward

Losing oneself to an inner eye

Perspective tinged by the breadth of life

From where I’ve been to where I am now.

~

Lost yet again in rapt reflection

Generating change from a constant flow

Creativity within the mind’s eye

With its secret’s allure just one step beyond.

~

For they draw me in to lose myself free

In solitude’s calm to meditate lone

To gather my dreams from farthest corner

And find gentle peace in depths of my soul.

~~

04/26/16

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~~

Were I To Know

I wrote the following poem in 2013 for the 10^th anniversary of our daughter’s passing, writing this blog that following winter.  Then, with the diagnosis in June 2014 of breast cancer, I became a statistic among others, sharing all the fears of every cancer patient.  And I feel so blessed to say I remain cancer free.

But, another shock hit the family when, on August 20, 2014, Ed’s brother, Marv, passed away unexpectedly from internal injuries sustained in a car accident.  Since then, our family has mourned the loss of several more of our loved ones.  And I know that many of you have had your share of painful losses, too.

With any loss, the direction of our life is changed in an instant… and, with a broken heart, we’re left to pick up the pieces.  In the uncertainty of tomorrow for any of us, the words below have become even more meaningful.  And may they bless your heart, too.

~~  ~~

We have no idea what tomorrow will bring.  We tend to blithely traipse through life, thinking we’re so in control of our destiny.  But, are we?  Personally, I find comfort and reassurance knowing that God is ultimately in control.  I know He understands who I am because He created me.  He knows my life from beginning to end.  He knows how each little bit and piece of my ups and downs, my joys and sorrows, my successes and failures all fit together to make my life something of value.  So, when life hands me a bump in the road, I can rest assured knowing that He will work it all out for my good, even though I don’t like the difficulty I must face… because He holds my hand, and He knows where He’s leading me.

None of us wants to think about losing someone we love.  Yet, eventually, we all face the loss of a dear family member, our parents or grandparents, a friend, our beloved spouse, or even face our own mortality.  It’s then, during our darkest days of grief, that we realize life is all too short.  What’s really important comes into focus in the realization that tomorrow is not promised to any of us…  And we focus on how we can best use the balance of time we’ve been allotted on this earth.

After the sudden and unexpected loss of our married daughter, Jennifer, on June 30, 2003, grief hit hard.  On the 28^th, she had collapsed at home, urgently needing an ambulance, and going into cardiac arrest shortly after.  On life support, barely surviving the flight to Rochester’s Strong Memorial, we were told there was no remaining brain function after testing on the 30th.  Ending life support was certainly not what her husband or we had ever expected for Jenn’s life.

This former high school valedictorian, alumnus of Houghton College, had graduated a little over a month earlier from Alfred University with honors and a master’s degree in school psychology.  She touched the lives of many with her heart of love, gifted in reaching deeply troubled children in her psychology work.  Her profs stood in awe of her ability, saving videos of her work as teaching tools for the future.  Her love even extended to classmates who had mocked her for not socializing in bars with them after classes.  Instead, she invited them to her home for projects, sharing home cooked dinners with her famous scrumptious desserts, ultimately winning them over with love.  In fact, two former classmates spoke at Alfred University’s memorial that October.  Reading Scripture in Jenn’s memory, they both told everyone it was Jenn’s love for them which led them to accept Jesus as their Savior.

Our family’s loss was deepened six weeks later by the passing of my mother-in-law, Minnie; though not unexpected, it was still a painful time.  Actually, it was a year of losses.  In May, my mother’s brother, Maynard, passed away.  Ed’s Uncle Frank died a week before Jenn.  Two weeks after Ed’s mom passed away, my cousins lost their son, Zach, in a tragic farm accident.  About two weeks later, my step-sister, Janet, lost her daughter, Kasey, in a tragic car accident.  Her vehicle was clipped by the pickup driven by the brother of one of the passengers.  Kasey was ejected and died in her mother’s arms while her three friends were unable to escape the fiery inferno.  At the end of that year, the last of my mother’s six brothers, Floyd, passed away.  And, the following spring, the oldest sister of my mother-in-law, Christine (or, Aunt Stine as we all affectionately called her) left this earth.  Yet, through all of grief’s emotions and darkened days, the comforting arms of God gently held each of us connected to a loss.

While at Strong Memorial Hospital, knowing our daughter would soon be leaving this world, I simply asked God, “Why?  I don’t understand!”  Not out of anger.  But simply out of confusion, sorrow and pain.  There was no immediate answer.  No miraculous healing.  No seeming answer to any of our prayers.

The next morning, sitting in the Rochester International Airport, waiting for our daughter, Emily, to fly in from California, I looked around with a heavy heart.  To my left, five large plaques hung on the wall.  I remember one was an ad for spaghetti sauce.  But, in the center was a shiny black plaque with silver lettering.  As I read the words, I felt a tremendous wave of peace wash over me from head to toe.  There for all to read were the beautiful words of Psalm 139:13-16 (NIV):  “¹³ For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. ¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. ¹⁵ My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. ¹⁶ Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”

God heard my plea.  He answered my heart’s cry!  And He knew these words were exactly the comfort I needed as I felt a wave of peace wash over me.  God was always with us, loving us through our pain.  The day after her death, I was in my sitting garden, praying, thanking God for her life, for her legacy of love to others, and for the 25 years we were blessed to have her with us.  Suddenly, while praying, I saw her in my mind’s eye – bathed in brilliant light, standing near a tree at the base of a hill that was covered in lush green grass with beautiful flowers all around, surrounded by children, as she said, “Be strong!”  And I felt a tremendous sense of absolute contentment and peace envelope my entire being.

What precious words of comfort directly from Scripture – Be strong!  Be strong and of good courage…  Be strong in the Lord…  Be strong!  God is with us in our deepest loss, our deepest pain… ready to comfort, hold, and encourage us as He showers us with His all-encompassing peace and strength.  My prayer is that others who grieve will find the same comfort and peace we have come to know – while focusing on using wisely the tomorrows that our God has graciously blessed us with.  Because none of us knows what tomorrow will bring…

Were I to know…

Linda A. Roorda

Were I to know tomorrow was my last

I’d want to say how much I love you.

I’d want to know I made a difference

In someone’s life along the way.

~

Were I to know tomorrow was my last

I’d watch the sun as it rose in glory

While dawn awakens the world below

And birds and creatures stir from slumber.

~

Were I to know tomorrow was my last

I’d see the world surrounding us all

As with eyes that beheld for the very first time

And stand amazed at creation’s beauty.

~

Were I to know tomorrow was my last

I’d stay in the garden to hear His voice

As He speaks within the depth of my soul

Embracing my heart in the beauty of nature.

~

Were I to know tomorrow was my last

I’d end the chase of meaningless tasks

And focus instead on what matters most

In the life and love of family and friends.

~

Were I to know tomorrow was my last

I’d see again the love in your eyes

And listen as you share dreams of your heart

To forever hold this memory dear.

~

Were I to know tomorrow was my last

I’d share the gift of love and peace

That overflows in a thankful heart

From blessings only God can give.

~

Were I to know tomorrow was my last

I’d gaze in awe on the sun’s fading light

With colorful hues and shadows dark

As moon and twinkling stars burst forth.

~

Were I to know tomorrow was my last

I’d want to share my Jesus, my Lord

For knowing Him and His gift of grace

We’ll rest in His peace and heavenly joy.

~

Were I to know tomorrow was my last

I’d share my vision with all the world

Of brilliant Light and overwhelming Peace

Within Christ’s glory on arriving Home.

~~

February 15-18, 2013

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The Stalwart

The old red barn stood tall on an open flat, alone against the gray sky, testament to a long life. It had weathered countless storms, looking only a little worn with wear and with a few repairs… another great photo by my friend Kathy’s husband, Hugh Van Staalduinen. And once again, the picture painted a thousand words that raced through my thoughts.

As we celebrate my husband’s 65^th birthday later this month, that barn seemed to be the perfect illustration of Ed’s character over the years. In fact, the day I saw the photo, and wrote this poem in a couple hours, I was waiting to bring him home from yet another hospitalization. Stalwart, steadfast and true, he’s remained standing no matter what life has sent his way.  Oh, sure he’s aged, with just a few repairs; but, like that barn, he’s faced many storms head on, never bending to the winds attempting to shake his foundation. He’s remained firm with his faith in the Lord, resting secure in God’s provision and love.

Yet, it hasn’t always been easy. There have been some serious storms that sent waves crashing against him… and against us as a couple. Despite some plain old-fashioned trials, dashed hopes causing great disappointments, the loss of a daughter, and his losses of sight, physical strength and ability, he’s overcome those trials with an inner strength and peace that comes from his faith in the Lord.

Through each difficulty, his and our faith has grown stronger, for we’ve learned “[We] can do all things through [Christ] who strengthens [us]” (Philippians 4:13) As I’ve said many times before, James 1:2-4 says it so well, even though we don’t want to welcome another difficult challenge. “Consider it pure joy my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.”

Being “strong in the Lord and in His mighty power” (Ephesians 6:10-13) is the foundation on which we survive great storms and come out standing. (Proverbs 10:25) Just like that barn in Hugh’s photo. If we have a good foundation on the solid rock (Godly wisdom), weathered by time (experience), the structure (our character) will stand tall… and prove stalwart and unwavering.

The Stalwart

Linda A. Roorda

Stalwart and stoic through the test of time

Facing the world to weather life’s storms

Meeting head on whatever befalls

Humbly proclaiming, steadfast I stand.

~

Bringing together nature’s harmony

Weathered and worn, reliably true

Dependably there to meet others’ needs

Asking for nothing but structural care.

~

Like the pioneers who settled this land

And carved their place from wilderness wild,

Weathered by nature midst elements raw

They kept life sheltered from all threats and harm.

~

Without proper care, wood planks become warped

Foundations fail without wisdom’s base.

Oh, can’t you see! The meaning is clear!

How like old barns are patriarchs wise.

~

Learning through hardship true wisdom is gained

Taking a stand for what matters most,

Sometimes enduring alone in the crowd

Serene and secure midst turmoil and storm.

~

God bless the stalwart, unwavering friend

Who braves the path no matter the storm.

Of foe unafraid, on wisdom standing

Steadfast and loyal with comforting peace.

~~

01/06/17

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~~

 

Meditations of My Heart

With another school year drawing to a close, I was reminded of my own school days a few many years ago. Actually, June marks the 50^th anniversary of my 6^th grade graduation from Passaic Christian School! But, specifically, after my family moved back to Clifton, NJ when I was in fourth grade, there was a verse which was our prayer at the close of every school day during 5^th and 6^th grades. Under Mrs. Marie (Rev. Dick, Sr.) Oostenink, we memorized many Scripture passages, including this prayer: “May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, My strength and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14 KJV)

It was a prayer that had settled itself in my mind though, admittedly, I had not always valued its place in my life. Still, it has often come to mind over the years, reminding me of the few years at that school and the friends I’d made. But, it also reminds me that, just like we as youngsters need training and guidance, so do we as adults need reminders at times. We often hear of negatives spread by gossip. We may even tell half-truths to make ourselves look better to others, think we can hide behind electronic gadgets while taunting, or allow our thoughts… our meditations… to travel beyond the appropriate.

Owning my own anger at times when overwhelmed and frustrated, I’ve spoken words in haste, words regretted, words apologized for. I could have found a better way to express myself, to affirm the right way to handle difficult situations with God’s loving words as guide.

In asking forgiveness from others, we also go to our Lord in confession, receiving forgiveness from Him. It doesn’t matter what we’ve done, or where we’ve been. He accepts us and guides us on our path… so that our words, our thoughts, and our actions will bless others and bring honor to Him.

Because, when the words and meditations of our heart contemplate praise and thanksgiving, we easily bless someone who might be hurting… sharing joy and laughter together from the depths of our heart… even shedding tears for a friend’s loss or difficulty… simply letting them know how much we care.

For “…whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything is worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” (Philippians 4:8 NASB)

And then, as we endeavor to speak and meditate on what is worthy and acceptable to our Lord and Redeemer, we will be a blessing to others.

　Meditations of My Heart

Linda A. Roorda

The years have shown me to value Your love

A love that seems deeper than when I was young.

But sometimes the trials that life brings to bear

Cause my heart to tire with weakness exposed.

~

It doesn’t matter who I am now

From where I’ve been You accept me still

Your arms open wide with an eternal love

As I say thank You for blessing my soul.

~

Thank you for guiding my life on this path

Thank you for saving my soul from sin’s wrath.

Thank you for words which praise your great name

Though I am prone to wander away.

~

Thank you for calling me gently back home

Back to your side with mercy and grace.

Thank you for blessing my soul with your peace

With praises to sing for loving me so.

~

For Lord you hold me in the palm of your hand

Sovereign and loving, protecting and guiding.

Yet what can I give to the One with all?

Showers of love to those all around.

~

As I press onward to a higher goal

Walking Your path to follow Your lead

With praise and honor for You, my dear Lord

In all that I do and all that I say.

~

And “May the words of my mouth

and the meditations of my heart

Be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord,

My strength and my redeemer.”

(Psalm 19:14)

~~

July 2013

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~

 

I Took A Path

I took a path… different from others, and yet really not as divergent as it might seem… for its meandering brought lessons from which wisdom was gained. And isn’t that so true for each of us?

There comes a time when all good things must come to an end. And that time has come for my blog, The Poet’s Chair, at the Elmira Telegram website which will close June 1^st. Life moves on for each of us with new paths, new beginnings, all along the way. And so it’s time to embark on a new path with a new blog.

I am so thankful for the path that led me to this new venture. I loved to write while growing up; essays were never a problem, and I dreamed of becoming an author someday somehow. But, my dream never materialized. Not having gone to college, my family once joked that my writing passion should net me at least an honorary degree… in what, I’m not sure! English, I suppose! Then, as an empty-nester, it all started with genealogy research of my mom’s families which provided enough material to write three in-depth research articles with a gazillion documentary footnotes in the prestigious “New York Genealogical and Biographical Record” – which led to my next venture.

It seemed only natural to next write a genealogy column in a local paper, The Broader View, to share what I’d learned about researching, while also writing personal interest articles. Next, I ventured forth with a new column “Life on the Homestead,” researching and writing about American history roughly 200 years ago. And then, I felt led to step out by sharing my faith-based poetry and reflections, along with writing a few articles for the Christian Reformed Church Disability Network. Now, I’m taking another new path on this journey with starting this blog. It’s humbling to hear how much my poetry and blogs have meant to you, my readers, and I’m honored to have you join me here.

Despite our successes, we can each look back over our life’s journey and realize we’ve been very blessed even though we blew it here ‘n there. We can either wallow in failure’s pity, or learn from those failures and mistakes to became a better person. And, more often than not, the latter option seems to be how we gain wisdom and maturity to succeed.

Looking back, the path through hardships was not the path I would have chosen. But, neither did I always take advantage of golden opportunities which presented themselves. Yet, in looking back, I see God took my failures and turned them into successes, teaching me what could not have been learned by not having traveled a difficult road. And, out of the failures and rough roads have come many of my poems and devotions to bring glory and honor back to our gracious Lord.

Knowing my penchant for taking life’s reigns into my own hands, I’ve learned to whom I should release my fears and frets. Just as we read in Psalms 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path,” may we look to our Lord for His guidance on our life’s path. Then, as God works through us, despite our rough edges and failures, we will succeed when we look to Him, learn from His wisdom, and see beyond our failures to the better path.

I Took A Path…

Linda A. Roorda

I took a path… a meandering path.

Its simple splendor beckoned to me.

‘Twas just a lane winding through the wood

Yet the silence spoke its beauty to me.

~

A path less traveled in quietude’s calm

With time to pause and to contemplate,

Where breeze gently stirs as sun filters through

Releasing my frets to soar on the wing.

~

You lend Your voice to nature’s grandeur

Bringing a sense of peace to my soul,

A world created so perfect and true

We mar with scars when our pride takes reign.

~

But may I see Your hand behind scenes

Working for best no matter the storm,

While showing You care for the least of these

Like seasons that change in the flow of time.

~

May Your calming peace be contentment’s light,

Guide faltering steps on the path of truth,

Refresh my soul with Your breath of grace,

And give me a heart with love’s gentle touch.

~~

01/28/17

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~~

Colors of Spring

Ahhh, spring! My favorite season! And doesn’t it look beautiful outdoors? I love to see the signs of new life emerging slowly, almost imperceptibly, after earth’s long wintry sleep. To smell the fresh earthy aroma that follows a gentle spring rain is refreshing, and to watch the daintiest leaf or flower bud begin to emerge brings joy to my heart. With a bright sun’s nourishing warmth, those leaf buds swell and burst open, bringing many shades of green to life. Then, as flowers begin to brighten the landscape, it’s as though all of creation rejoices with endless color.

I’ve often thought about the joy and pleasure it must have given our God as He created every aspect of this world, every plant and every creature… each uniquely designed! After His work of creating a separate aspect of this world each day of the week, “God saw all that He had made, and it was very good.” (Genesis 1:31 NIV) Wouldn’t it have been wonderful to have been a witness as this marvelous creation all came to be? I’ve also imagined that the first week of creation was spring with vivid colors bursting forth in blooms from every kind of plant and flower imaginable!

Then He created man and woman to tend and care for the beautiful Garden of Eden, ultimately to be caretakers of the world at large. And to know that all this beauty was created for our pleasure, to treasure and nourish… what an awesome responsibility and beautiful gift we were given!

Enjoy the beauty of spring in all its glory as it bursts forth anew to color our every-day world!

Colors of Spring

Linda A. Roorda

From brilliant yellow of forsythia arched

To burgundy red on trees standing tall

The colors of spring emerge in great beauty

To brighten our days from winter’s dark sleep.

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From chartreuse shades as leaf buds burst forth

To pink and white flowers in cloud-like halos

Hovering on branches in glowing full bloom

Swaying above carpets of undulating green.

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From rich azure sky with puffs of white-gray

To pale blue horizon at forested hills

With sun-streaked rays like fingers of God

To lengthening shadows as light slowly fades.

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From velvet black night as moon rises full

To glittering diamonds twinkling bright

Up over hills on a path through the sky

Gliding above trees with limbs reaching out.

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From earth’s colorful palette awakening clear

To the crisp and bold and shades of pastels

Shimmering and dancing to brighten our day

Created by God, our pleasure to behold.

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05/02/13

All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without permission of author.

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What is Beauty?

Beauty – we all admire the aesthetic and beautiful in both people and nature, though beauty is in the eye of the beholder they say. Often, as our young girls strive to be beautiful, they imitate the actresses and models they admire on the “silver screen” or magazine covers. But, too often our young girls fail to realize the images are fake, made more beautiful and glamorous by much makeup and the air brush, not a true reality beauty. And, a pretty face may not always have a heart of love. So, what is beauty? And how do we define it?

There’s an old-fashioned philosophy which I think still holds true today. “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as [elaborate hairstyles] and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” (I Peter 3:3-4 NIV)

With those words in mind, when we give of ourselves to benefit others, a depth of beauty is seen through the glow of an unselfish act… with a genuine love for others. We show true character by reaching out to help those in need, especially those who cannot pay us back for such a free gift. It’s a heart of humility, with grace and gentleness, that shines brightly when we don’t call attention to ourselves… and quietly go about living a life of peace by showing honor and respect to all we meet on our path.

And what is the opposite of love’s beauty? The generous airs put on to cover that which has been defiled… airs to disguise a selfish attitude of pride leading to self-centeredness and greed.

Which brings us back to our question, what is beauty? Smiles to brighten someone’s day. A helping hand to those in need. Sharing the truth with humility. Generous acts of kindness strewn among friends and strangers. An unfading gentle spirit of love and peace found within the selfless heart. Therein lies true beauty…

What is Beauty?

Linda A. Roorda

What is beauty if the heart is shallow

Where is glamor when rudeness takes charge

And what is charm with selfish desire

For what is love but the giving of self?

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What then are words when the mind deceives

What is character with rebellious soul

Why enticing lures to captivate hearts

For what is virtue but integrity’s truth?

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What is kindness if the tongue reviles

And what is honor without reputation

Or the humble soul if boastful and proud

For what is grace but gentle elegance?

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What is adornment when respect has fled

What are principles if deceit is the core

What is esteem when self is worth more

For what is honor but morality’s judge?

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What then is beauty but innocence pure

The charm and grace of respectful repute

Humility’s stance with integrity’s honor

For what is beauty but the gift of self?

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10/25/16

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May not be reproduced without permission of author.

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Where The Heart Soars Free

Life being what it is, an imperfect entity, there are things that happen to each of us over which we have no control. What we do have control over, however, is our reaction… either to our detriment, or to our recovery and growth.

Recently, a friend’s post about PTSD suffered by combat veterans reactivated memories for me. I’m going to share my story because I no longer suffer with it, or certainly not to the degree I once did because bits do pop up from time to time, but also because I did nothing to cause it and no longer need to feel ashamed.

Post-traumatic stress disorder – it’s not just a syndrome affecting our military vets returning from the war zone. PTSD carries a host of after effects from various traumas such as emotional, physical or sexual assaults, natural disasters, serious accidents, and many other traumatic life-altering situational stressors.

PTSD is an invisible pain with its own specialized mental challenges. Unlike visible wounds, it often lacks outward evidence or proof, taking prisoner one’s deepest inner self and emotions.

PTSD is typically evidenced by flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, panic attacks, and feeling detached from reality, etc., essentially an unstable emotional equilibrium. At times, no one else knows the victim has a problem, who may even be in denial that anything is wrong, or be totally unaware of the problem. I know. I was diagnosed with PTSD well after the trauma of verbal rape had occurred in junior high. For me, PTSD reared its head to strike years later after having to steel myself daily in an abusive employment situation.

Predating that traumatic event though, my family was abruptly moved from a farming community of everything and everyone I loved to city life, and I was an emotional “mess.” But, I overcame the challenges and adapted, making a new life with new friends. Yet, just a few years later, my family never knew why I became withdrawn, was easily agitated, and startled and screamed easily at the unexpected. I shied away from making close friends, withdrew from a great group of friends in our church youth group, being afraid of even them, and typically “clung” to my sister’s side when I should have been making my own friends.

I also never shared my fear of the dark, literally sensing someone was right behind me to grab and kill me. It was a very real and horrendous fear that I battled for at least 20 years. I was afraid to tell anyone, fearing they’d think I was absolutely crazy. But, to be fair, I also had no idea a traumatic event in junior high could have been causing my problems. I thought that event had simply been tucked away in the distant crevices of my memory.

Only a couple years after that emotional trauma, came taunting/mocking by the neighbor’s sons, or so I assumed, hidden from view in their yard as I took care of my mare. Unfortunately, my hate for them was very real. Wishing I could apologize for my own error over the years, I finally gathered the courage to seek out one of those former neighbors. He graciously accepted my apology and forgave me. Because, unexpectedly, I had been reminded of the incident by the perpetrator some 15 or so years ago who still thought it was hilarious fun at my expense, while I was afraid to share the hurt done. Sadly, it was someone I was once very close to, and who did not comprehend the damage her mocking did.

Just a few short years later, when returning home after my and Ed’s dates (he was legally blind, unable to drive), I would park my car as close to the house as possible, and run as fast as possible to get into the house. The closer the car to the door, the more severe the fear. It was laughed about, but I never shared what I feared with anyone except my husband-to-be. (I did share it with my Dad a few months before his passing, and heard the pain in his voice for his never having known in order to have been there for me back then.)

Fast forward several more years when, after leaving an abusive employment situation, nightmares and flashbacks set in. Resigning from the new job because of a sudden inability to function and make office decisions, I felt like an absolute and total failure. Driving past the home of my Dad’s best Army buddy, I heard a voice (which I truly believe was the Spirit of God) saying, “I’m here for you. Your family needs you. You will be okay.” Like ancient Israel’s King David had said in Psalm 91:2, “I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust’”, He was there for me in so many ways.

Having to support my family with Ed unable to work at that time, I put one foot in front of the other and worked as a secretarial temp for executives before being hired at my current position – both employment situations being a boost to my moral, especially the letters of recommendation from a bank president and Cornell professor. Finally seeking professional counseling, I got a diagnosis – PTSD. Told I really would be okay, and that none of it was my fault (which I’d always believed), the healing process began with my husband’s loving support.

It seems like a lifetime ago. I have forgiven those two boys, also hoping they’ve gone on to become better citizens, as well as having forgiven my mocker. The effects of any bullying, like our youth and even adults see today, are truly devastating. And I will no longer allow myself to be mocked or bullied by anyone. Yet, because of what I’ve been through, I’ve also learned God really does use even the traumas of life for a higher purpose, like my poetry. As Paul wrote in Romans 8:28, “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…”

I’m so thankful to say I’m doing well, and so appreciative of all the great and supportive friends who have blessed my life with their presence!

Where the Heart Soars Free

Linda A. Roorda

Little girl sad, withdrawn and teary

Changes and loss disrupting life’s flow

Leaving behind remnants of what was

With emotional scars, reminders vivid.

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Where once her heart ran free, unhindered

Clinging to joys and ease of childhood

Now all the world was seen through the lens

Of deepening gray on guard for the unknown.

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Open her eyes, Lord, that she may see

All of the wisdom You share with her

May she then know how great is Your love

That You care enough to shelter her heart.

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For there is a place where the heart soars free

Where love shines bright in a world grown dim

Where hopeless need meets faith to overcome

By walking the path that conquers defeat.

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As an airy joy with a zest for life

Brings cheer to the sad and light to the dark

Where peace in the heart and contentment calm

Cover her wounds with a loving grace.

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12/21/16

All rights reserved.

May not be reproduced without permission of author.

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