In my neck of the woods, this year’s brutal and destructive winter of ‘26 is now behind us, as Spring has taken center stage, praise God! Every cell in my body rejoices and looks forward to morning walks along the beach at sunrise in shorts and t-shirts only. Now, that’s what I call living!
But leaving winter behind reminds me of other areas in my life where I need to turn the page for self-improvement or self-enrichment, which are too numerous and personal to list here! Aren’t we all constantly self-assessing our thoughts, words, and actions when it comes to our relationships with God, spouse, family, friends, and the environment around us?
When I turned 65 and retired, the self-assessing didn’t stop. I didn’t push a button and say I want me and my life to remain the same until I take my last breath. Quite the opposite. As I continue to mature, I have more revelations about the areas of my life that need refinement—according to God’s will for my life.
Just as winter is over and now I’ll go outside to cut away the dead things the hard frost killed, so must I prune away from me the things that detract from my being the best possible human being I can possibly be. We all fall short of perfection, just as we all would prefer to point out the weaknesses in those around us rather than turning that same critical eye on ourselves.
It’s time to turn the page by letting the blossoms and blessings of Spring reign in our minds, hearts, souls, and spirits. Peace on earth to you, as much as it is possible!
“Look around you: Winter is over;
the winter rains are over, gone!
Spring flowers are in blossom all over.
The whole world’s a choir—and singing!
Spring warblers are filling the forest
with sweet strains.
Lilacs are exuberantly purple and perfumed,
and cherry trees fragrant with blossoms.” (Song of Solomon 2:11-13 MSG)
Brian Murphy

— About me —
Brian was lured to New Smyrna Beach, FL, in 2004 by the promise of small-town seaside charm and sunrise walks on a tranquil, dreamy beach. But he discovered much more! Read More...
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