"Still Here." by "Encounters and Reflections II" author - Annette Olivia Brown

The fallen leaves were thoroughly gathered and disposed of.   All of the trees had shed their last coat of leaves, except one.
 

“Why are the leaves still falling from this tree?” she demanded. 
 
She thought deeply about this challenge and then later declared  “I am the one that needs to adjust, not this tree!”

She gave the tree a big, conciliatory hug.  


I could image this scene. Humanity and nature finding common ground, surrounded by disinterested tree trunks and branches, freshly cut grass and the cool winter breeze.  Short puffs of dragon like smoke must of gushed out of her mouth as she exclaimed her original disdain.   Autumn was retiring slowly as winter rushed in to take it’s seat.

Keisha worked as a grounds keeper in a local community park.  We encountered each other months ago during one of my brisk walks in the park.  Since our initial meeting, we often have short but rich dialogues about the sovereignty of God in our lives. 

Keisha’s epiphany is: the tree is fulfilling it’s purpose.  We may want circumstances to change for our convenience or our immediate needs.   God, however, knows the bigger plan.  Obstacles serve a necessary purpose in our lives. 

Sometimes we need to redefine what we first perceive as an obstacle, like Keisha did.  Sometimes we need to find a way to move the obstacle, with insight and leading from God’s Holy Spirit.  Perhaps, we may need to find a way around an obstacle! 

Whatever direction we need to go in, whatever ultimate choices we need to make, God our Creator, our Spiritual Father, will lead and guide us as we seek Him for His will and perfect timing.   


“Trust in the Lord with all your heart
 and lean not on your own understanding, 
 In all your ways submit to Him 
and He will make your paths straight.”
~ Proverbs 3:5-6