
Optimism 2026
“The essence of optimism is not in its view of the present, but the fact that it is the inspiration of life and hope when others give in…” D. Bonhoeffer

“The essence of optimism is not in its view of the present, but the fact that it is the inspiration of life and hope when others give in…” D. Bonhoeffer

The comfort of Psalm 91 re-interpreted in poetic rhyme. The Lord is my refuge and my fortress… his faithfulness will be your shield in times of trouble.

Current events leave us feeling out of control. Encouraging words for the times in which we live. And the important role Faith plays in our lives, the better to help see us through these difficult days.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote… “I believe that God will give us all the strength we need to help us in times of distress… a faith such as this will allay all our fears.” Words of hope and encouragement to see us thru these difficult days filled with so much uncertainty.

Life is a balance of opposing forces. There is always light within the darkest of times…. hope within the bleakest of days. This continual ebb and flow of movement between and within the seasons, means that night will always give way to bright sunshine. And we will know a brighter and better day than what is now present.

A poem of hope and encouragement inspired by the message found in Psalms 61 and 62. Wherein God is both our strength and refuge. We can place our hope in Him and find rest for our souls.

Life’s journey takes many twists and turns. We meet with stumbling blocks which can turn into stepping stones. Yet sometimes they are way-markers pointing us in a different direction, towards a better and more productive life. A path which is uniquely our own!

All Saint’s Day and the Celtic Samhuinn tradition are when we take time out from our busy lives and remember loved ones now gone. A reflection on both the difficulty – and the wisdom – of letting go. Filling the void of grief is a challenge, but… there is comfort for those who mourn. And also – encouragement.

Feeling overwhelmed by life and current events? This meditation on the words of the Apostle Paul focuses the mind on the good and positive. Uplifting both heart and spirit towards better times. Whatsoever is true and pleasing… admirable. Think of these and the Peace of God will be with you.

An inspirational poem on the promise of Hope. When life gets challenging and things seem to go wrong, where do we turn? This poem reminds us that better times are ahead even in the darkest of days. And… that God holds our hand and walks by our side all the way through. An encouraging and reassuring message.

Reflections on the presence of hope and the promise of spring, during the cold and dark of winter. Symbolizes that a thread of hope can also be found within our own personal lives, no matter what the circumstance. God’s Presence remains with us – regardless.

The pandemic changed how we live, as well as how we see the world today. We navigate choppy waters and find our way through contrary winds. But God does not leave us comfortless. Peter Marshall wrote how diamonds are made under pressure, and that great blessings can come out of difficulties. A hopeful and encouraging piece of reflection.
Join the journey as I write my own
“How-to”
Sharing random thoughts and musings on spirituality, faith and friendship…
the questions of life, the challenges… and yes, even the frustrations…
sprinkled with a dash of hope
and encouragement.
Words and quilts express it best
filling my journal with colour.
So… how do you ‘muse your life?