Belonging gives me roots which dig deep under the black soil, holding tight in life’s winds and rain. When I belong to others, I grow confident and steadfast.
But if I stop there, I am just a barren tree.
It’s when I crave what is more—when I crave what is MOST—that my branches bud and bloom with the hope of spring.
She smiles the whole time, even as cancer ravages her body. She smiles and sings. Her smile is alight with hope as she gazes on us from her front stoop, backlit by the warmth of her home.
We shiver and sing in the bitter wind, standing on the frozen grass.
I glance around, surrounded by a ragtag crowd whose voices warm the cold air. Neighbors, co-laborers, pastors, friends. All united in love for her. I wonder if all standing there know the only One who can comfort.