God is talking, are you listening?

 “Talking Trees” – Written - Spring 2007

A tender wind blows against the face at 5:30 in the morning, as the sun rises and God’s creations explode with beauty and energy.  Listen to the wind as it blows between the bare branches, guiding the breeze around the obstacles of nature.  Maneuvering around tree branches, rocks, cliffs and one’s tent.  A tent stationed atop the cliff, overlooking beautiful Lake Ontario. Tall and majestic trees are strategically arranged, providing protection from strong winds while still allowing the breeze to sneak in and touch one’s heart and soul.  Man didn’t plan this serene escape yet is lucky enough to spend time here, igniting and inspiring their inner being.

            Arms outstretched to the sky, eyes closed and welcoming the touch from God to guide one through the day.  Feeling the warmth of the newly rising sun while chilled by the early morning breeze blowing against the body.  The leaves rustle with movement, creating soft whispers in the air.  Although alone in the moment, the whispers remind one that we are never alone.  God’s love and creation are always surrounding and touching us; we need only slow long enough to enjoy the company.  As the leaves whisper and dance, one single leaf lets go.  Leaving its safety and security.  Leaving the security and comfort of living, of life, high up on the branch.  It chooses to sacrifice its life in order to touch another, in order to save another.

            Standing with the eyes shut, wondering if anyone recognizes, if anyone hears, if anyone sees and especially… if anyone cares.  With arms lifted to the one true God, one prays for a sign from the Lord.  The arms are getting tired yet you are able to hold them high, waiting for that one touch from above that answers all your questions.  As the sun rises, and the wind blows, tears begin to fall from the eyes.  Unsure of the reason yet relieved for the release, the Lord has heard.  It will be okay.  You are not alone.  One more prayer, “Lord you have touched my heart and released the doubt and frustration while replacing it with a feeling of warmth and love.  Lord, if only you could wrap your arms around me and touch me with the magnitude of your power, love and compassion.”

            The trees are talking, cracking their limbs to one another in the breeze.  The leaves begin to dance quicker and more determined.  The Lord IS here, watching and listening.  They stop talking, stop dancing and watch.  One of their sisters has let go and is going to answer the prayer from below. As the leaf falls, the wind strengthens, allowing all to share in the excitement and dance, dancing even louder.  The single leaf falls, slowly, knowing it is going to be the Lord’s messenger today.  Choosing to give up life in order to save another.  All of a sudden, the breeze stops.  Stillness surrounds the one in prayer.  Arms still uplifted, tears still falling with hopes of the Lord answering a prayer.

            The only sound is that of the waves brushing along the rocky shore.  The sun is higher now, the breeze has stopped and the leaf dances above in glory.  For not only is the one in need chosen but so was she.  Created and chosen by the same and given the honor of sacrificing her life to save another.  Her eyes are opening, slowly, to enjoy the majesty of the yellows, oranges and reds illuminating the lake as the Lord says “Good Morning”.  One more time, the prayer is said but this time aloud for all to hear, “Lord you have touched my heart and released the doubt and frustration while replacing it with a feeling of warmth and love.  Lord, if only you could wrap your arms around me and touch me with the magnitude of your power, love and compassion.”  Just then, it happens.  She notices one leaf dancing in the air before her eyes, almost as if dancing from one spectrum to the other and enjoying the beauty of the sunrise as much as she. Can it be?

            A prayer answered…As the leaf dances it way over near the one in prayer, it gently lands on the left palm.  Landing only slightly to crush the skin and then rising to dance a circle around the chosen one.  It brushes each cheek, ever so lightly, as if drying the tears, and then finally landing on the right palm.  “Could it be?  The Lord was with me all the time?  Thank You Jesus!”  The leaf settles into the snug warmness of the hand as each finger slowly and gently closes upon her, keeping her safe.  Once the fist is closed completely, the trees begin to talk and the leaves begin to dance.  Standing tall atop the cliff, with hope and determination for the future.  The Lord not only heard, but, answered personally, this leaf is proof.  As the breeze increases, it brings the chosen one to their needs in thanksgiving.  She holds the leaf close to her heart and listens to the trees talking and the leaves dancing.  The sun has risen and the day has began, began anew.  She looks one last time above and thanks the Lord for taking time to remind her of his beauty and love for each individual creation here on earth.  Brushing the dirt from her knees and wiping the tears from her eyes, she turns to face a new day.  As the breeze whirls about her, touching her skin, she is reminded she isn’t alone.  She never was. All it took was one leaf to make a difference, sacrificing its life to save hers.