...walking through the valley

like most people's, my life has it's ups & downs...
it's twists & turns...

and though at first glance from afar...



things here seem in good order...

upon closer inspection though...



damage is visible... all things are not well...
some things are pristine...others are ruined...



though there is "light"...
there is also shadow...

and it's currently not clear...
as to whether the shadows are gathering & engulfing...
or the sun is breaking through...



and in the glare of the direct light...



permanent damage is all too visible...

unrepairable...

only to be dealt with by pruning...
and hoping for new growth...
but then, even new growth will fade & die...
and the direct light can burn and destroy...

so, from deep in the shadows...I looked up...



embattled, wounded & cornered...
felt the warm, healing sunshine...
and smiled...
knowing that everything will be all right...

God is good...