The Gifts of Today

What would we do without our grocery store flowers in the midst of the dreary, cold, no color days. Just looking at this pop of color brightens my thoughts and enhances the spot where they sit.  A trip to Trader Joe's wouldn't be complete without flowers.

Went to my Wednesday morning Bible study today where we began Beth Moore's study of James. She presented a very thought-provoking premise that James was the actual brother as in "family" of Jesus Christ. Being a member of the Catholic Church since I was in my early 20's we have always believed that Jesus had no other siblings, and that "brother" referred to his disciples, his followers, his cousins, but not a true brother as in sibling.  I mean after all, doesn't Paul write his letters and always address them to "my brothers and sisters in Christ?  Doesn't the minister, or preacher, or priest address his congregation as brothers & sisters?  In our group collaborative blog we refer to ourselves as "life sisters", so the word brother and sister has many implications.  I am twisting this thought around and around in my mind.  And another thought that has me puzzled is in reading the book of James, which is very brief, there is never a reference anywhere to Jesus Christ.  So, right now, I am mystified as to their relationship.  And may remain that way this entire study.  But that is what Bible study is all about, to make us think, to make us ponder and sometimes question and certainly to grow in our own spirituality.

Afterward I met my "writing teacher" for lunch at the arboretum.  Sharon and I became friends after I took her class at our local college, "Writing With Spice" last winter and then followed it with a 2nd class this past fall.  It's always a pleasure to be in her company and while I was telling her about my current Bible study she talked about the bible study that she is enjoying.  Sharon is Jewish so it's always interesting to talk a little "religion" while we are together.  Currently she is in the midst of a study on the book of Jonah with the instructor being an expert in the translations surrounding the book of Jonah.  They are quite literally inching thru this book, and asked me to join her one day.  I would enjoy that.  A different perspective, a different mindset.

I mentioned earlier in the week that our assignment in our 50 mm class is "street photography"  Street photography is an art photography that features the human condition within public places and does not necessitate the presence of a street or even the urban environment. According to Wikipedia 
Others say it is taking pictures of people in public places without their knowledge.  I am finding that a difficult concept this week since 1) it is so dang cold resulting in not many people wandering around in public places and 2) if I am going to snap someone's picture without their knowledge I feel more comfortable using a zoom lens so I am not right on top of them (too obvious).  So, I have done "street photography" Wikipedia's definition twice.  Once in Trader Joe's, I approached an elderly woman that had a delightful face and explained to her what I was doing....she most graciously gave me permission to take her photo, and said I made her day, then proceeded to tell me she did not want to be posted on my blog.  So I have to respect that....dang it.

And the 2nd time at the Arboretum's restaurant. Again I explained to the man (see below) what I was doing, this time didn't mention my blog, so he didn't have a chance to say no posting (oh was that wrong??) so here is my "street photography".

I am now down to less than 2 weeks before leaving for Arizona for some sun and warmth, and I have found someone to stay with my "kids" while I am gone....yippee!!

"Each day comes bearing its own gifts. Untie the ribbons".  ~ Ruth Ann Schabacker

Until next time.....