Isn't She Lovely?

She throws her hair toward the south

Bending frail and spiny frame

Foliage of lace quivering

Unforgiving winds to blame

Twisting limbs in growth unnoticed

Silent stretch to heaven's care

Bony fingers humbly opening

In her meager offering there.

by Heather

This is our Japanese Maple and I think her character is beautiful. As I was taking photos around our yard, I noticed her winding and twisting growth and it reminded me of how circumstances and pain can cause us to become a little bent over and worn on this journey called life. But as we reach heavenward and open our hands in trust to our Creator, we find sufficient grace for each new day. Our wounds, if offered to God, shape our character into something admirable.

A woman who knows the pain of a few broken limbs but stretches out her arms to the needy--isn't she lovely?