Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned
how to be content with whatever I have.
Philippians 4:11 NLT
If I could make a list of all my wants, it would probably be quite lengthy...
how to be content with whatever I have.
Philippians 4:11 NLT
If I could make a list of all my wants, it would probably be quite lengthy...
This would be especially true for someone who is shut away behind the walls and fences of a maximum-security prison. But as time goes on, many things that I once considered to be in need of, have lost their importance.
This was further reinforced earlier today when I went outdoors to the main recreation yard. As was my custom, I checked on my beloved tree friends, Miss Goldie and Mister Orange. They were fine. Well-watered with plenty of sunshine, my friends were nicely camouflaged by their lush green leaves. They've blended in with their neighbors who appear just as healthy, and they will stay this way until it's time for their fall colors to burst forth.
I then continued to walk the perimeter of the yard as I usually do, enjoying some quiet time. It was a blessing to get out of a hot and noisy cell block and stand under a vast sky of blue. And that's when I saw them. Nine deer grazing in the field which surrounds the rear and sides of the facility.
They're a common sight around here. Sometimes they'll be few in number, while at other times they'd be over two dozen. Although the land officially belongs to the State of New York, these quiet creatures seem to have claimed the land as their own.
I stopped to watch them. And if I could describe the herd with just one word, it would be contentment. Some of the deer were bent down eating, while others stood still while looking around. A few were even watching me as I watched them. I would think that by now I have become a familiar face.
They had food. They looked healthy and calm. The deer reminded me of the apostle Paul's letter to the church in the ancient city of Philippi. "I have learned to be content." Well, I'm not there yet, but I believe I'm going in that direction.
D. B.
This was further reinforced earlier today when I went outdoors to the main recreation yard. As was my custom, I checked on my beloved tree friends, Miss Goldie and Mister Orange. They were fine. Well-watered with plenty of sunshine, my friends were nicely camouflaged by their lush green leaves. They've blended in with their neighbors who appear just as healthy, and they will stay this way until it's time for their fall colors to burst forth.
I then continued to walk the perimeter of the yard as I usually do, enjoying some quiet time. It was a blessing to get out of a hot and noisy cell block and stand under a vast sky of blue. And that's when I saw them. Nine deer grazing in the field which surrounds the rear and sides of the facility.
They're a common sight around here. Sometimes they'll be few in number, while at other times they'd be over two dozen. Although the land officially belongs to the State of New York, these quiet creatures seem to have claimed the land as their own.
I stopped to watch them. And if I could describe the herd with just one word, it would be contentment. Some of the deer were bent down eating, while others stood still while looking around. A few were even watching me as I watched them. I would think that by now I have become a familiar face.
They had food. They looked healthy and calm. The deer reminded me of the apostle Paul's letter to the church in the ancient city of Philippi. "I have learned to be content." Well, I'm not there yet, but I believe I'm going in that direction.
D. B.
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