Disappointment! It's So Disappointing, Unless.....

'Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us..." ... Ephesians 33:20


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Remember this peaceful place that I've shared with you each December since 2005? 

You could stand out there in the snow (in the warmth of your home), listen to carolers, dry your frustration tears and watch ice skaters until Christmas insanity fell from your shoulders and calm returned. Man, back when I used to do Christmas-like-everyone-else, I needed that place. Spent hours there.

But now that interactive card is gone. Vanished. Lost its domain whatever.

Oh, Ashland University did create a new card, but it's, well, a disappointment in comparison. (Shhh... I'd hate to discourage them.)

Of course, at first I felt rather crushed. To never visit that pretty gazebo again! Even though I no longer let December expectations abuse me, still, the peace out there was palpable--and who doesn't like that? 

And where would I send you this year?

Well, God being God (and good), led me here (click 'continue' and turn up your volume). In some ways, it's even lovelier(!) But, I've not--yet--felt the same calm in this new place. Perhaps it'll come in time. 

But the main lesson in all this is that, upon being confronted by disappointment--I remembered something. And it didn't even take days, but only seconds: When disappointment rears his head, take hold of your emotions and make yourself expect something even better than what you lost.

Yes, seriously. It's legal to do that and oh, how that one thing has colored my world brighter these past couple of years. After all, greater is He who is within me, than any ol' head-rearing disappointment in this world.

Anyway, here you go. Another peaceful place to stand and heal and recall Who Christmas is really about.



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"But David encouraged himself in the Lord..."   ... 1 Samuel 30:6


"Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!"  ...Psalm 31:24


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A Facebook friend shared this photo of her cough drop wrapper:

Isn't that cool? Encouragement in a small, unexpected place, especially there to help those weakened, dragging along with a cold. 

I believe God sends encouragement to us all the time, but only those who aren't wrapped tightly within their own self-pity cocoon ever see it.

Just something to consider on this cold December afternoon ....


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