Springtime in Texas

The spring in Texas is quite a different animal than any other I've encountered. Some have said that our fall and spring are God's way of making up for the blazing heat. It is a true statement to say that the summer here, well it's probably what hell feels like, except more humid. The fall in Texas cannot be beat. The days are still warm but there is a tiny bit of crispness in the air that makes the nights big and bright....the spring is the opposite. The spring in Texas is about crisp mornings that warm over the next few hours. I much enjoy the odd spring leaves that fall (yes, in Texas the oaks loose their leaves in February). I also enjoy that you can plant beautiful flowers, tomatoes, strawberries, pretty much anything without fear of frost (except the very well fed squirrels are a 365 day problem). I also have enjoyed the "winter" here this year. No real snow to speak of and I do quite enjoy native Texans going outside to see a bit of sleet.

As we exist among the comings and goings of the seminary I am reminded that a solemn time is approaching. The time of repentance, self-denial, community-giving, and loads of self-reflection is almost upon us. The seminary gets to have special kind of buzz as Lent approaches. I have always rather enjoyed Lent. Perhaps my Roman Catholic roots, and certainly my adult life, it was time when I was able to focus my energy into things that were beyond my understanding. It's still a time of wonder for me. Less about self-denial, more about giving what I can.

For the first time in ages I feel like I am pulling a dark curtain back. I am no less busy, no less pressed for time, no less engaged in multiple tasks, but I am stronger in my conviction to live in the light. To live into the fullness of time that is now and will never be again. Perhaps that is my lesson for Lent. To remember and celebrate that our days are unique, each and every single one. They may not be great days but even in the darkest of days, we can find hope. Perhaps it only fills a mustard seed but it exists. So as I prepare my mind and self for this coming season know that things in the Vicarage are good. We are well. We appreciate your prayers and we pray for you as well. Until the pancakes are plentiful...be well.