Counting Summers: Finding Abundance in a Brief Life

Learning to live slowly, gratefully, and with intention

It’s been nearly a month since I wrote a blog, and as many of us say, “Time flies.” I read something the other day—I cannot recall where—but it mentioned that if you want to think about how short life is, count it by summers. So for me, I will have experienced 60 summers once this one has passed. That really hit home and reminded me how life, as the Bible states, is but a vapor (see James 4:14). Hearing this caused me to pause and reflect on all the good things God has done for me, but most importantly, it gave me hope for the eternal life that is to come after my time here on Earth is done.

It’s a great reminder of how best to use my time—to focus on intentional choices and ways of living, enjoying each day and yes, even each moment. The smiles from our adult children, the giggles of the grandchildren, our friends, and the sheer excitement both of our dogs show when I take them for a walk and they frolic in nature, in the tall grass, exploring everything they can smell and see. I, too, am drawn to the outdoors. I always have been. The sounds of early morning—the breeze, birds chirping, dogs barking in the distance. And in the evenings, the crickets, frogs, and other creatures. All the things I can so easily take for granted, I often now notice with a deeply grateful heart. And the older I get, the more frequently my heart feels full—filled with joy and praise for all He has done in my life. Like the wildflowers that spread, He fills my heart so full that some days it feels like it cannot hold any more.

Each month, I select a topic to focus on. I then find daily readings that speak to that topic. This month’s topic is Abundance. What is really interesting is that when I focus on readings about a topic, I’ll also start hearing others mention the very same thing. Just this morning at worship, our pastor mentioned the word abundance. This, too, is a sign for me that even though I am but a small speck on this planet, God knows what is in my mind and heart. Hearing it echoed in others and learning more about it feels like answered prayer—affirmation that He is listening.

With all of this said, this blog is more of a heart-share than anything else—a message of hope for anyone who reads it. I encourage you to consider choosing a monthly topic and spending 30 minutes to an hour each day finding readings that support it. It truly helps me make the most of this short while I am privileged to be on this earth with those I love, surrounded by the abundance of nature and all its gifts.

With grace and gratitude,

Cindy

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