Most mornings now I like to sit with a hot cup of tea in front of the living room window and … just sit for a while. I see the sky lightening, clouds creating new shapes against the early sun and watch the day unfold itself like a lazy child. Here in the mountains, I can’t see the whole sky like on the prairie in Cottonwood, where the blazing sun fills up the sky like an overzealous artist with a bucket of gold. My view is mostly forest green etched with tall, ragged Ponderosa pine tree. Birds come early to feed on insects sunflower seeds so there’s usually a flurry of wings at the feeders.

I used to get up and hit the floor running, making the bed, unloading the dishwasher, etc., etc., but now after weeks of isolation, I wonder, whatever for? I’ve all day long to do chores. There’s no rush. Some people read their Bibles when they first get up, but my mind awakens more leisurely. The first half hour has become a precious quiet time just to Be and to thank God for the blessings He pours out each day because His mercies are new every morning. Thus I begin the day in peace and am increasingly aware of God’s Hand over life. I can do this now because for the last four months I have slept well. The nightly affliction of almost a year long insomnia is gone. God be praised! I am very, very thankful to get up in the morning feeling well and rested. It is a miracle.

My life is also simpler than it used to be. The stress, drama and chaos of the past is over. Now one day slides into the next seemingly without change, without noticeable differences. Monday is like Friday and I’m no longer ruled by the calendar. That is a good thing. However, the placid valley floor isn’t nearly as exciting as encountering Jesus on the mountain. I’ve been spoiled by all the great and mighty works which the Lord has done for me and my family. And the church? We cross a river and search for the milestones, signs and wonders, but forget that God places thousands more pebbles into the riverbed under our feet.

Sometimes it is the most basic blessings we take for granted, things like sleep and breathing, our heartbeats, and being able to see, touch and hear . We’re rather ho-hum about the gift of life residing in bodies designed by the Brilliant Designer of all creation because they’re simply there so we pay no attention, at least until we can’t see or breathe or sleep. Perhaps then we should count the pebbles instead of sheep!

How amazing to be blessed with another 24 hours – just to sit if I want to.