wonder eyes glaze over at magnificent sights blinded by lighted images one moment glancing at a Polish castle the next skimming over forests of Peru and nothing extracts so much as a silent gasp not even a second glance--no-- everything within reach, everything convenient no appreciation for surrounding glory small miracles we've lost our sense of wonder
Description from Goodreads:Joni shares sensitive reflections on the wonder of God's presence and encourages us, in practical ways, to commune with Him regularly and catch heaven's quiet fragrance in the midst of our crazy, bustling world. My Review: I don't remember the last time I finished a devotional prior to this morning. I rarely have the patience for nonfiction, unless it is exceptionally entertaining or else speaks to me. Being a devotional, this book obviously achieved the latter.
(Goodreads description can be read here) In this second book, Rhea, Daen and Randell continue their search for answers. Now that they have found each other and a way into Luxatra, the plot moves along much more quickly and is more action-packed than the first book. Rhea learns about who and what she is, opening up more questions pertaining to what it all means.
you dance, but you don't know why the breeze blows and your branches move yet you don't comprehend light plays through your boughs leaves shimmer and clap their tiny hands papery trunk stands tall while roots anchor, continue to grow and you don't understand you just are, and be, and praise photo by Paul Manickam I do know my tree species, I promise! (despite the fact that I just posted a photo of maple branches with a poem about a birch tree)
I wonder about the trees. Why do we wish to bear Forever the noise of these More than another noise So close to our dwelling place? We suffer them by the day Till we lose all measure of pace, And fixity in our joys, And acquire a listening air. They are that that talks of going But never gets away; And that talks no less for knowing, As it grows wiser and older, That now it means to stay. My feet tug at the floor And my head sways to my shoulder Sometimes when I watch trees sway, From the window or the door. I shall set forth for somewhere, I shall make the reckless choice Some day when they are in voice And tossing so as to scare The white clouds over them on. I shall have less to say, But I shall be gone. --Robert Frost
I visited New England last year, where I admired the trees and even toured one of Robert Frost's homes.
Draw near to me, oh God, be ever beside me that I may feel your Presence that I may feel Do not abandon me in my melancholy though I am dust mold me as clay to do your Will strengthen my wavering knees Draw near to me, oh God, be ever beside me--never leave-- that I may feel your Presence Draw near to me, oh God
(Goodreads description can be found here) I really enjoyed reading McCourt's first fantasy novel, and look forward to reading the rest of the series! It is surprisingly realistic (for a fantasy) and very detailed without being boring. This is a very smooth read. Though written in third person, the book alternates between perspectives of three main characters and weaves their lives together beautifully, gradually revealing connections.
wonder
not even a second glance--no--
