Unexpected Graces

Juneau, Alaska is located in a rain forest, which means many cloudy or rainy nights.  Therefore, though the aurora borealis (Northern Lights) are often active in our area, we don't see them because of the cloud cover.  A couple weeks ago we had one of our rare clear nights.  I looked out to see the stars and a ribbon of green light danced across the sky.  The Northern Lights!  For fifteen minutes I delighted in watching the green streaks across the sky.  Pure gift, and unexpected!

This made me reflect on the little surprises, totally unexpected, that pop into our lives at times when our spirits need a sign of hope, of joy. During this Easter season and amid the warming air of spring little surprises seem to be more profuse.  They are everywhere!  Maybe it's because our spirits need these signs of hope and joy in a world that often seems out of touch with goodness, gratitude and reverence for God's creation.

What signs of hope and joy have you experienced recently in your life?

Marie Lucek, OP

Juneau, Alaska