“For I know the plans I have for you, plans to give you a future and a hope.” NAS Jeremiah 29:11
Fall. Rich, vibrant, colors. Coolness. Sweaters and coats. I hiked a new trail at Rampart Park on the north side of Colorado Springs. The trees are fabulous as I hiked with my friend’s dog Max. He is a Husky, brown and cream with his thick winter coat and brown and blue eyes. He explores the dog park first and then I want to see if he will be alright hiking with me off leash. ‘Oh Lord, don’t let him run away.’ He is bonding to me after 24 hours, but he is their baby. I feel such a responsibility ,but I want him to run free. There is no one around as is raining on a late Monday morning. Max is a sprinter, pounding down the trail after a smell, hunting prey, and marking his territory. He comes back to me easily and I say “Go, Max go.” The strength in his youthful body and the joy in his run make me marvel at his dogness. He runs to the tree, explores a little and sprints back to me when I call and when he is out of sight for just a moment. The light rain and gusty wind makes me glad I have on a sweater, coat, and raincoat. Even if it is bulky. Max teaches me joy. The wonder of beauty and change. The feel of coolness after a dry and hot summer. Smiles and doggy kisses. Hopefulness returns.
In what area of your life do you need to have hope today? Where are your strengths? How have you had fun this week? What do you see in your future that is a change from today? 