Motorcyle Ride Lesson - Can't See the Mountain

Mt. Rainier, Washington State

I adore exploring the northwest from the backseat of our Honda Shadow.

Now, don't get me wrong. The entire middle of my field of vision is blocked by someone's big head and helmet. But other than that, I have a wonderful view, ringside as they say, of the beauty we are so happy to explore.

On a recent trip, we took a rather long ride from Yakima over Highway 410 to Puyallup. We then came back to Yakima on Highway 12. If you count miles, it is way too many for one day of riding. I was feeling it. No, I was not feeling it, as certain body parts stayed continually numb.

But that wasn't the point. What was important was my view - gorgeous scenes of Mt. Rainier, forests, rivers and streams, Mt. St. Helens, farmlands, meadows, and more. The weather was slightly warm by mid-afternoon and completely heated our frozen bodies from the early morning going-over-the-pass cold temperatures.

As we aimed for home, headed up White Pass, I kept a keen gaze glued to the north side of our path. There are some pretty exceptional scenic views of Mt. Rainier from Highway 12, and I didn't want to miss them.

I looked and enjoyed. It seemed odd, but there didn't seem to be as many as I had thought. No, the mountain in all of it's snow capped glory had not moved. (Whew, right?) But the multiple views were just not happening. Clouds, traffic, trees, buildings, curving roads - all conspired against my efforts.

I knew Mt. Rainier was there. I knew it has not skipped town for colder spots unknown. It was there, stately, majestic, and awe-inspiring. I just couldn't see it.

And then it hit me.



Isn't my relationship with God sometimes like that?

I know He is there. I traipse along, bebopping with my busy life. Sometimes when I glance over, looking for the sight of Him where He has always been, I don't see Him. Where did He go? Why can't I see Him? Has He left, vacated the premises? I keep on traveling, glancing to the sides of my path, hoping to catch a glimpse.

In all of His glory, majesty, power, and beauty, He has not moved. He hasn't packed up and skipped town. Nor has He tired of my whining or forgetfulness or lack of faith. He is there, right where He has always been.

But me? I've let the trees and clouds and traffic of life put up filters and screens that block my view of my God. It's totally my fault.

Yet I don't need to fear or worry. God is not going anywhere. He will always be there, even when I can't see Him. I can rest, knowing that He is right there, just beyond the trees. Right where I know He is.


"It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."  ~ Deuteronomy 31:8 (ESV)

A Month of Thanks - November 7 - Autumn

I adore autumn! Fall is my most favorite season.

I am totally thankful for fall. November is the perfect fall month.

My neighbors do not agree, those who have giant towering deciduous trees.

But I love it. The smells, sights, sounds, weather. Walking through crunchy piles of bright colors is the best. Cool mornings, windy days, blowing leaves tickle my fancy.

Three cheers for fall!

Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.
- John Muir

Meet My Prize

Jellyfish Creations (islandjellyfishcreations@gmail.com)

Regard my new prize, recently acquired from a college friend as we celebrated our collective 50th birthday (our whole group).

Hand-blown and crafted on Whidbey and Camano Islands, of Washington State, my treasure features an interesting design resembling a tree branch. She is one creative lady, my friend Julie. The truth be told, all of the Jello Molders group ladies are talented in many ways.

Old enough to appreciate beauty - of any variety.

Upon further reflection, while I appreciate this treasure, there is One even greater. A pearl of great price, worth all of my wealth and sacrifice.

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.

Matthew 13:45-46