Things in our lives have been what Hubby has dubbed "code red status", as of late. "Code red status" isn't made up of the little stresses that just come along with everyday life. "Code red status" is made up of the big stuff that hopefully comes infrequently into one's life, and if one weathers it well one is a better and stronger person for having experienced it.
The current state of affairs in our lives has caused me to reflect on a favorite hymn entitled "Where Can I Turn For Peace?":
No "code red" phase is forever. As my great-grandmother used to say, "This too shall pass..." But for now it is comforting and consoling to have inspiration come from various sources like the hymn above.
It is also comforting and consoling to be blessed with the home that we consider our refuge and haven from the storms of life. Rosehaven Cottage is the place where I physically, emotionally, and mentally retreat to in order to regain my strength so that I may meet the challenges I face. The time spent under the shade of the plum tree is most precious at "code red" times like these.
Interestingly, every person is capable of having a place like Rosehaven Cottage. It may come in many forms, sizes, styles, and locations but it can still represent the same thing in each person's life--a refuge and a haven. My most heartfelt desire is that everyone could create what we have created--for it truly is something that one creates and doesn't just happen by chance. It doesn't make the trials of life go away, but it certainly does make it easier to exit those trials a victor.
The current state of affairs in our lives has caused me to reflect on a favorite hymn entitled "Where Can I Turn For Peace?":
Where can I turn for peace?
Where is my solace
When other sources cease to make me whole?
When with a wounded heart, anger, or malice,
I draw myself apart,
Searching my soul?Where, when my aching grows,
Where, when I languish,
Where, in my need to know,
Where can I run?
Where is the quiet hand
To calm my anguish?
Who, who can understand?
He, only One.He answers privately,
Reaches my reaching
In my Gethsemane,
Savior and Friend.
Gentle the peace he finds
For my beseeching.
Constant he is and kind,
Love without end.Text: Emma Lou Thayne
Music: Joleen G. Meredith
Scriptural reference: John 14:27; 16:33 and Hebrews 4:14-16
No "code red" phase is forever. As my great-grandmother used to say, "This too shall pass..." But for now it is comforting and consoling to have inspiration come from various sources like the hymn above.It is also comforting and consoling to be blessed with the home that we consider our refuge and haven from the storms of life. Rosehaven Cottage is the place where I physically, emotionally, and mentally retreat to in order to regain my strength so that I may meet the challenges I face. The time spent under the shade of the plum tree is most precious at "code red" times like these.
Interestingly, every person is capable of having a place like Rosehaven Cottage. It may come in many forms, sizes, styles, and locations but it can still represent the same thing in each person's life--a refuge and a haven. My most heartfelt desire is that everyone could create what we have created--for it truly is something that one creates and doesn't just happen by chance. It doesn't make the trials of life go away, but it certainly does make it easier to exit those trials a victor.
A haven always helps with the coping and having a refuge to buffet the storms is comforting. I'm sorry that code red is the phase right now. You're blessed, even in these times of trials.
ReplyDeleteCindy, this is very nice post, I really enjoyed reading, and I always enjoy all your other posts. Your Rosehaven Cottage, is real heaven you created. BTW I don't know what is happening, its Sunday night and I am visiting my fav blogs, and you are the third person to talk about peace - is someone is trying to tell me something lol. Anna :)
ReplyDeleteCindy it would seem that code red abounds at Briarrose Cottage also these days. The cozy comfort of the familiar is only possible if we keep our focus, above where it belongs. When we keep the faith....we are assured that even when there are tears in the night, there will be rejoicing in the morning<><
ReplyDeleteI look forward to autumn and the return of VICTORIA magazine...a familiar sameness will return with it's peaceful elements..a haven of blissfullness.
I belong to an online group that was instrumental in bring about a rally cry to bring VICTORIA back to us. Come for a visit on those gray days when life is slow at
Return_To_Loveliness@yahoogroups.com
"HE is my source of existence and Savior.
He keeps me functioning each and every day. Without Him, I will be nothing. But, with Christ, HE strengthens me." (Phil 4:13)
Love Karla & Miss Peach
I'm sorry you're having to go through a "code red" time right now. It is a blessing to have a home that is a refuge for times like these.
ReplyDeleteManuela
You have built your haven, and that strength will see you through these trying times. You are in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteHope things are looking up for you guys! It is nice to have a home that feels safe and comforting, isn't it?
ReplyDeleteHi Cindy... you have posted some lovely thoughts in the past few days! I hope all is well or becoming well! :-) All the best to you!
ReplyDelete