The night comes quickly. Stealing back the rays of darkness, the slivers of light retreat. In one corner is a quiet resting place. Set next to the granite of the landscape, the headstone glistens with newfound paleness. Where does life enter and death retreat? When a stone is rolled back and emerging life envelopes those closest. Two women held in suspension. Disbelief captured by dawning realization. This is the new day!
As the day comes to an end, I've experienced the feeling of tiredness. Last night was three hours of known sleep, and probably more that I'm not quite sure about. There are draining situations that regularly arise in people related vocations. Often this is a sign that people trust you and are willing to let you get in on their own "messiness". While I try to remain detached enough that I'm not totally drained, I often come to a point where personal involvement means taking on some of the hurt. Balance is what it's about. I'm trying to haul back the tetter-totter!
I'm sitting in our church, awaiting shoes boxes! Yes, we are the local collection point for "Operation Christmas Child". For this week the church building will be open both morning and afternoon. I've volunteered to be here (since I would be here most of the time anyways) -- although anyone who wants to spell me off is welcome! Today we got in over 100 shoe boxes, most of them from one church. The processing centre in Calgary has also been in contact with us. Things are going along well and I hope to see a few hundred more shoe boxes by Friday. Once the shoe boxes arrive, we tally and record them. Then we place them in larger cardboard boxes. From there they are forwarded to our local bus station. The bus system then carries them to Calgary, but arrangement with Samaritan's Purse. Great idea! Great opportunity!
Outlook, Saskatchewan was the sight of the first invitational regional Bible quiz of the year. Our church had three teams entered. As I understand it, everyone got a chance to answer a question!! Kindersley 3 answered questions and experienced great opportunities. They come back with a new appreciation for what they still can accomplish. Kindersley 2 fared a little better in their division. Their future is bright. Our Kindersley 1 team did very well, taking the championship in their division. Congratulations to all!!