Lumiere Charity Photograph Gallery

BIRD I

Many years ago, some hand unknown to me painted this beautiful bird. Who was this artist? How long did it take to develop this unique and luminous talent? How many decades did it take to weather the paint to this mellow beauty? Whose was the great talent to make so wondrous a work of art, a bird which looks ready to break into song at any moment? So many questions, and the answers known to Almighty God.

We are all artists. We create, bring beauty to others' lives. Mothers bring talents of nurture, fathers give talents of protection. Teachers impart talents of education. Doctors impart blessing of continued life when they save us from premature death. Nurses give dedicated care. All who draw or sculpt or paint or craft or mosaic or clay work give the beauty of art to the world.

What is your gift?

You will have gifts. Usually, more than one. Artistic creation, musical ability, strength of body to help others, strength of mind to make decisions to ensure a better world. Caring ability to help others. Dentistry to save from pain and ease the lives of others. So many talents.

Why not develop your talent? God will help you.

As this beautiful bird has inspired me on my journey, and I thank the unknown artist - so may Almighty God strengthen you with confidence to create art by writing, journalism, music, poetry, driving ... whatever is your beauty of talent.

And rejoice! Life is meant for living, not for grieving over a buried talent. Take out your talent, dust it off, and do something with it. We all need your brilliance and amazing unique ability in our world!

And shine ...

FAITH

Faith sustains us at all times. In difficult times, have faith that God is still in control. Turn to Him in prayer, asking for the best for your final holiness. God will always help you to make the best decisions.

If the storm is howling, Jesus will eventually calm the tempest. If the way is rough, perhaps God is allowing you to be tested. If we are never to have rain in our lives, if we are cushioned through too much luxury and ease, we will not grow to our fullest potential.

If you are afraid, turn to God. And trust in your inner strength as son or daughter of Almighty God.

As Eleanor Roosevelt so famously said, we are like a teabag - we never know how strong we are until we get into hot water.

Have faith! We will all win through to holiness with the Grace of God leading us along our path.

Do not fear. All will be well. and all manner of things will be well. (Julian of Norwich)