Teddy Bear – Woman Warrior

Love is seen and felt in so many places and ways. Unless you are giving it or looking for it through God’s lens, most days it seems love doesn’t come knocking on your door. It seems selfishness, jealousy, envy, hatred, rejection, uncaring, and lust are the common themes that this world hands out in droves. I am so relieved that God’s Word tells us that we can love because God loved us first. His Word also reminds us that we are chosen, enough, strong, brave, victorious, unique, capable, and beautiful.

“We love each other because He loved us first.”

~ 1 John 4:19 NLT

Last week my husband and I took a mid-southwest vacation to Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. Our vacations are half planned with time and space left for whimsical stops and visits. One of my Dean’s wishes was a visit to the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum. The federal building bombing happened 30 years ago this April. This incident was so impressionable back then and still is. What was an unspeakable act of hatred that killed 168 people and injured hundreds more became a beckon of hope in God’s love in His people. This community and our nation rallied around determined to beat hatred with love. God’s justice prevailed.

As a souvenir and reminder of the love gathered at the memorial service almost 30 years ago, I bought a teddy bear at the gift shop. The bear is similar to the ones gifted by Illinois’ first lady to Oklahoma’s first lady in 1995, then handed out to the family and friends of the bombing victims attending the memorial service. Just one example of God’s love and grace. So many other provisions of comfort, kindness, and grace continue to be extended. Love wins!

“A Day of Darkness. Years of Light.” ~ Oklahoma City

Right now life is painful. I cannot write specific details here, but I can share how God is watching over Dean and I during this time. Our Father has provided a few wise people in our lives, who are available to be a support, pray for us, and speak the truth to us. As scripture says “the truth will set you free.” Working through this rough patch, I write and write and write. This type of therapy is healthy for me.

“Where are all of the people who want little cottages in the woods with shelves full of books and gardens full of herbs?” ~ Brooke Hampton

Years ago I wrote a poem to a special Teddy Bear. This furry companion was with me from the beginning as a mother. I still have him. I recently discovered this poem from a box with other poems I had written, too. Today I write about a teapot fairyland, specifically on Teapot Street.

Teapot Street

Summer winds up into the autumn season

like the amber string of lights wind up on a teapot

illuminating the warm colors of the season.

Orange pumpkins plump alongside the teapot dwelling,

waiting to cast a whimsical glow at nighttime.

Cakes and pies resting on the windowsill

to feed hungry souls like the Word of God feeds us.

Trees sway in the crisp wind like the Holy Spirit

breathes strength and life into His people.

Friendship Bistro is set on Teapot Street

providing a comfy menu to partake for a special teatime.