lilacs in a time of pandemic

i don't believe in coincidence as much as i believe that we are cared for.

at a time when i pray for others in situations of life or death, why should i be sent children's books...or flowers?

my heart of hearts was the only place that possibly knew about either, i didn't tell anyone.

not that i had been searching for a picture book the day before one came my way.

not that i had driven past a burgeoning local lilac tree last week and seriously considered coming back in the dark with scissors.

i didn't need to, because lilacs showed up on my doorstep.

nowhere near life or death.  certainly not essential.

coincidence?  i think not.

a deep care beyond understanding?  most certainly.  and a deeply humbling one at that.

feeling cared for that much for no reason helps me to cast my cares and worries into Love's capable hands and--with faltering practice--leave them there.

peace that i can turn the pages of.  calm that perfumes my home.

tangible reminders that if life conspires for these minuscule details, surely our prayers for the sick are more than heard.  they make a difference; surround the suffering in ways they can feel.

thank you to the human agents of grace in a time when it's especially appreciated.

what has made you feel cared for lately?  what have been your lilacs in a time of pandemic?