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Be Still

Spending time alone in nature or my studio is a natural way of life for me. When I find myself anxious about the news of the day as COVID-19 cases and the death toll rise, I seek solace outdoors and through painting. Nature frequently rewards me with special moments that bring renewed hope. Through the years the land has suffered from natural disasters, man-made destruction, and even the harshness of winter, yet each spring brings new growth. Observing the spring awakening of the land has been a soul-lifting reminder of the resilience of nature.

Watching this heron brought one of those special moments. He seemed unaware of my presence as I sat quietly watching him, and he stood motionless watching the water. He calmly, peacefully, and patiently waited for just the right moment. The title of my painting “Be Still” seemed fitting. While the world was suffering a global pandemic, this heron had not a care in the world other than catching his dinner. “Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Matt. 6:26

May we be still as we wait for this invisible enemy to be defeated. If by chance art and nature and faith

can bring a moment of healing, a sense of peace, a calming of the spirit, let us just be still and accept the gentle reminders that the sun will indeed rise tomorrow.