THE WHISPERS OF SHADOWS
The season of long shadows has a way of transforming the perspective in our lives and the era we spend time stirring up dust on this planet. It is the time of year when the indomitable sun takes a coffee break from the season that has beat and worn the delicate soul cages wandering this part of the earth into submission.
The sun seems to have found its compassion, crouching at the sidelines of the cosmos, glistening its softer rays alongside us. This is the time in passing of a season that I tend to reflect. The task at hand questioned, the priorities of our longings pondered, our near and ancient history examined.
The long shadow cast by the late season can’t reveal the heart of the being standing in the cast light. Our actions and thoughts in the course of the repetition of seasons speak to who we are – the thing the shadows can’t speak of. The heart hidden in the long shadows.
A heavy coat, a turned up collar, a hat or cap, none of these things speak to the condition of our souls. Who are we behind the mask of the long shadows?
The ominous power of the sun can’t reveal the heart of mankind, only the reflection of light it casts. The Source that powers the sun is infinite. That Source of power is the secret behind the sun and its glory. That Source is so powerful He sees and knows what the sun can’t. It is created for the purpose of demonstrating the true source of power; The God of all that is.
He directs the sun, the seasons, and the long shadows. His powerful spirit that made our physical life made our hearts to ponder our existence and purpose for being here. When I see the long shadows I ponder the dark side of a soul. The season of the whispers of shadows that once seemed like an eternity now begin to seem more like a breath in time.
We take our turns in chronology of this globe as it takes its revolutions. Only the Source of power that spins each knows how many we get. The years and turns in all seasons when I cared more about the silhouette I struck in the eye of humankind and the long shadow is falling behind like the past seasons.
My shadow can’t tell much about who I am, but it can remind me of the sovereign power that designed the shadow along with our souls. How many seasons did my shadow reveal a fool chasing the wind? How many sunrises and sunsets and the seconds between have been wasted?
I’m reminded of this during this season of the long shadows, as well as every season allotted to me, is this; “Fear God and keep His commandments… for this is the whole duty of man.” May we find peace and joy that exists in this cosmos that only comes from He who holds this sphere and all of us on it in His mighty hand.
Bill (cycelguy)
Sunday, March 2, 2014 @ 7:04 am
We have had to cancel services today due to ice, sleet and snow. I have to remind myself He is in charge. 🙂 I look forward to the days of the sun high in the sky with the feeling of wind through my helmet. As for you big boy: how would you know what it is like in the land of ice, sleet, snow and frigid temps while you live in the land of the retired people? ROFL
Floyd
Sunday, March 2, 2014 @ 8:56 am
I’m sorry to hear church was cancelled! I do appreciate your passion to share the Truth of our Father, that’s just the best thing ever!
You know I’ve been around! I’ve wrapped air hoses around my waist with two other guys on the dry side of an icy roof while I slipped around two stories off the ground on a frozen roof trying to nail it off… Years later I did some big jobs in CO where the wind chill was 25 below… Found out it’s easier to work in that than stand around in it. I was just at a job in TX a couple weeks back with my vented tennis shoes and jeans, basic cloth hoody, when the wind chill there was 14… but I was still out in it… I know enough to know I’m not cut out for it!
Lynn Morrissey
Sunday, March 2, 2014 @ 6:52 pm
Honestly, Floyd, I think this is one of the most profound and poetic blogs you have ever written. I was captivated by your wisdom and reminder to live all our days under the sun (and SON) with purpose and passion. That is what you do when you blog. I will never think of these long-slanted shadows in the same way. Thank you for a powerful life-metaphor. I have come to appreciate winter more, though, because of its stark clarity–its paring down and stripping off. When the leaves of my life have blown away, I can see my skeletal branches with more clarity, and I have the ability to assess more rightly. I also read last year in a “small-book” about having a shadow mission. I found that fascinating. It’s what we are living when we are wasting our lives and not living up to the potential of the real purposes God has ordained for us. Thank you for living on purpose! I love all you write.
Blessings,
Lynn
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 5:48 pm
Oh man… What wonderful words from not only an amazing sister, but as profound a writer as you are. I’m humbled, Lynn. I like that analogy of how to have a different perspective on winter. May we strive to do the will of our Father. And thanks for the encouragement, Lynn.
Audra Krell
Sunday, March 2, 2014 @ 8:03 pm
This reminds me of the way you write your novels, well I have to say all of your writing is fantastic. Where did you work in CO? As you might remember, I’m from there. It’s a different kind of cold! I was thinking as I was out walking, that I’ve completely adapted to AZ. Whereas most people find their hope in the first buds of spring, I find my truest peace and hope in an Arizona winter wind. These powerful summers scorch my soul and when the cold winds hit, it fills my soul with hope. I’ve never been so grateful for “winter” in my whole life. You said it exactly, “the sun finds its compassion” and what a reminder of the Son’s compassion. This piece really reflects the way I’ve been thinking and feeling the past few weeks. Thanks brother!
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 5:52 pm
You and I can relate to the “sun finding its compassion, huh, Audra! We take a beating during the summer! I had jobs going in and around Denver for years in the early nineties. Man I got tired of flying around on airplanes… Glad this one connected with you, Arizona girl. I’m praying for our kids on mission trip in your old neck of the woods, Audra. Looks like they’re going to have decent weather. Thanks, Audra.
Betty Draper
Sunday, March 2, 2014 @ 10:54 pm
” The long shadow cast by the late season can’t reveal the heart of the being standing in the cast light. Our actions and thoughts in the course of the repetition of seasons speak to who we are – the thing the shadows can’t speak of. The heart hidden in the long shadows.” You have been doing some deep pondering my brother. Pondering on life here on this earth and the rotation of seasons that come to us all. I know I am in the early season of winter of my life and find myself thinking deeper thoughts then ever before. Like Audra, I am seeing more of God’s compassion for myself and others. It shows up better in the cold bleak winter season, maybe because it’s needed more. It’s needed more after a hot hot summer. Anyway, very good post, glad you put your pondering to the keyboard.
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 5:56 pm
Although I never would have thought I qualified, by the grace of God, it’s a wise hearted person that ponders the seasons of their lives… Your wisdom must be rubbing off on me! That’s a good thing! Not hiding from the truth is initially painful, but joy and peace comes from seeking our Father’s will and truth in our lives. Blessings and cheer to you and your family in the middle of your move. Not easy, but it’s all in His perfect plan. Thanks, Betty.
Hazel Moon
Sunday, March 2, 2014 @ 11:09 pm
Only what seems a few days ago, we thought we were “something else,” but now we find ourselves only a shadow chasing the wind. Our lives will seem only a vapor and then we will escape these cages we are locked into. In the meantime, you have wrapped it all up very well reminding us to fear God and keep his commandmends and the greatest of these is to love God and to love one another.
I love the poetic writing in this post!
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 5:57 pm
I love your summary, Hazel. How it warms my heart to hear the wisdom and care in your wonderful words. What a blessing we have to share our Father’s truths and wisdom. Love indeed, sister. Thank you!
Dan Erickson
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 6:38 am
You’ve done it again, Floyd. You knocked my socks off with this one. I love the analogy here and the final thoughts. And oh “How many seasons did my shadow reveal a fool chasing the wind?” Far too many.
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 5:59 pm
Me too, brother… Me too. I’m surprised we didn’t bump into one another while we were out there chasing the wind! It may have knocked some sense into us sooner! Thanks, Dan. Your words reveal the heart that I’ve shared this path with.
Ceil
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 7:11 am
Hi Floyd! The sun does cast it’s shadow, but never can divine our hearts, that’s for sure. Our very being is hidden from this world, and it’s only if we decide to show it, will it cast a shadow.
I’m glad that you have decided to show your heart, and your thoughts about the impermanence of our stay here on earth. But, the time we have is precious and should be used for our Lord, and his glory. Very thought provoking today. And a real truth that we never know how long we’ll stay. The only choice we have is to use it well, and to not hide our hearts.
Great reflection today,
Ceil
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 6:01 pm
“Use it well, and to not hide our hearts.” Yes. That’s it, Ceil. Wonderfully put… by one who is walking the walk. “Only what’s done for Christ will last.” Thanks for the reminder and encouragement. Blessings to you, sister.
Betty Jo
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 8:15 am
Floyd, what an incredibly beautiful and thought provoking piece of writing! As Lynn said before me; it’s poetic. I will never look at shadows the same way again either. This sentence jumped right off the page at me “That Source is so powerful He sees and knows what the sun can’t.” Amen, Amen!!
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 6:04 pm
The earth does truly declare His majesty! I so appreciate your wisdom and dynamic spirit that comes through your words with the power from our Father. Thanks for taking the time in the middle of your move to add your insight! I’m praying for you and the move, Betty Jo.
Rick Dawson
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 9:29 am
Nothing is wasted in God’s economy, ever. Sting reference, duly noted. Ecclesiastes student – makes me smile. 🙂
You’ve a winner here, Floyd.
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 6:06 pm
Good call, Rick. The efficiency of our Father is mind boggling. My worst can be used perfectly for His cause. Redemption and grace can’t be overstated. Glad to hear you’re wearing a smile. Praying for you and all you have going on this week, Rick.
David
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 10:51 am
“The season of long shadows …”, wow Floyd! I am again amazed at the gift with which you’ve been blessed. I don’t have one my “instant” poems going, but I sense inspiration for one brewing, thank you.
As my own shadow is beginning to lengthen, I’m learning to not regret all the ticks and tocks I’ve wasted, I can’t get them back so why waste more of them regretting. And sadly, I’ll likely waste some that are yet to come, but I’m seeking to change that so when I look back in 10 years or so (Lord willing) I will have fewer wasted moments to regret …
Thank God for his grace as we seek His approval on that day and hope to hear the words “well done my good and faithful servant” …
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 6:15 pm
Your words that point to the peace and joy and wisdom from our Father I’ve come to appreciate and savor within my soul. We’ve all wasted time, but our soul seeks our Father’s wisdom and grasps the love and forgiveness there. Our best is ahead of us, brother. Thanks so much, David. Share that poem when you get it done!
Caleb Suko
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 12:25 pm
I’m always amazed at how simple God’s commandments are for us. I love that verse you quoted form Ecc. It reminds me to come back to the basics, fear God, obey him and he’ll take care of the rest. There’s comfort in that especially for me right now as I look at a country I love being invaded by foreign troops who are doing nothing but complicated the issue with their presence.
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 6:19 pm
I hear you, Caleb. None of us know what our sovereign Father is doing or allowing, but we trust, and that verse boils it down for a simple man like me to grasp. Reminds me of how our Savior told us we need to come to Him; like a child. I’m praying for the Ukraine with you, Caleb.
David Rupert
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 1:40 pm
The long shadows are most prominent when the sun shines the least. The brighter the light, the shorter the shadow. Makes me want to get closer to the Source so I don’t have to look over my shoulder!
Floyd
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 6:21 pm
Nice call, David! The closer to the Source the warmer and more comfortable our souls are too!
David Rupert
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 1:40 pm
The long shadows are most prominent when the sun shines the least. The brighter the light, the shorter the shadow. Makes me want to get closer to the Source so I don’t have to look over my shoulder!
Nannette and the Sweetheart
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 6:55 pm
I just love this Floyd! Your words are captivating, and always uplifting, since they are about the Savior. As magnificent as the poetry is I kept hearing the children’s Sunday School song, “He’s Got the Whole World In His Hands”! ♥
Floyd
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 5:22 pm
What a great song to have playing in your head! It really is that simple. I think we sometimes try to make it to complicated. I so appreciate your enthusiasm, Nannette! It is a blessing. Thanks, sister.
Jennifer Dougan
Monday, March 3, 2014 @ 7:05 pm
Hi Floyd,
“He who holds the sphere” — I like that! 🙂 And the personification of “crouching at the sidelines of the cosmos…” Fun.
Have a great beginning of the week,
Jennifer Dougan
http://www.jenniferdougan.com
Floyd
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 5:23 pm
See there! I’m taking notes from you! Thanks, Jennifer and blessings to you and yours this week.
tcavey
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 10:44 am
Beautifully written!
We can see God in everything-looking back, looking around, even looking ahead. Everything points to Him. How so many, especially Christians, miss Him in their daily lives is beyond me. Though I’m very guilty of missing Him in my high speed pursuit of reaching goals, I am thankful that God tugs at my heart and slows me down. When I stop and gaze at His beauty, I’m swept away by His grace. No better place to be than in the shadow of His love.
Floyd
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 5:25 pm
I couldn’t say it better, TC. “I’m swept away by His grace. No better place to be than in the shadow of His love.” The earth does indeed declare His glory! He is sovereign and in all. The lost make the choice to not see. Amazing what the senses can really see and grasp with His enlightenment within us. Thanks, TC.
Dolly@Soulstops
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 2:59 pm
Floyd,
Your words cast a shadow pointing to the true Light Source…so glad the darkness cannot overcome the Light (Jn. 1:4-5)…beautiful post…Thank you 🙂
Floyd
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 5:26 pm
His light is shining on and in you, Dolly. Counting the blessings. May He lift you high upon His shoulders, sister.
Wanda
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 6:26 pm
Floyd you have such a wonderful way words by friend. Your words leave me deep in thought reflecting upon the Son. Have a great week.
Floyd
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 8:38 pm
We encourage one another to just that, sister. Thanks for all you do and your wonderful heart that longs for our Father’s glory, Wanda. Thanks.
Shandra White Harris
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 6:41 pm
Wow. Powerful stuff my friend. Amen.
Floyd
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 8:39 pm
Our Father is all majestic, sovereign, and in the truest love of us; His chosen. Blessing to you, Shandra. God bless you, my sister!
child of God
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 6:47 pm
Hi Floyd,
I love shadows and all the fun you can have with them.
Such a wonderful post, so deep! I love the similarities between sun and Son and how everything in the natural can be thought on in the spiritual. Father really knows how to show us Himself through His creation. If only we seek Him and really look.
Blessings brother.
Floyd
Tuesday, March 4, 2014 @ 8:41 pm
Yes, yes, yes!!!! His creation truly does declare His majesty! All we have to do is open the eye of our soul that He’s opened to link with our senses… It’s an outrageous miracle from Him! I admire how you spin it in summary so well, makes my heart sing! Bless you, sister!
Dan Black
Thursday, March 6, 2014 @ 2:02 pm
I believe every person has a “dark-side” that if it’s not surrendered to God and managed can run over and ruin our life. Thankfully we have God who shows us grace, mercy, and love. Amazing post my friend.
Floyd
Thursday, March 6, 2014 @ 5:33 pm
Yes. Well said, Dan. The weaknesses in us can ruin us if we let the enemy use them. It’s good to reflect and ponder in order to look truthfully at our lives. That’s when our Father shows up with love and mercy. Thanks, Dan. Wise words, my friend.
Dan Black
Thursday, March 6, 2014 @ 8:46 pm
Amen!
Joanne Norton
Thursday, March 6, 2014 @ 2:40 pm
The Source is all I can count on, moment-by-moment, day-by-day. I feel so depressed often, b/c the world is so full of sinfulness and sorrowfulness. But I can count on Him. Thanks for sharing so straightforwardly. An absolute necessity, according to me. Bless you, Brother.
Floyd
Thursday, March 6, 2014 @ 5:35 pm
Thanks, Joanne. It is saddening to see the world turn their backs on the love that cries out to save them… That’s the heart of a prophet, sister. He is what we count on. Well said. Thanks, Joanne.
Amy Nabors
Friday, March 7, 2014 @ 3:31 pm
Such a beautiful post. I’ve never stopped to think about shadows during this season. And to reflect on them in this way is beautiful.
Floyd
Friday, March 7, 2014 @ 6:58 pm
Awe thanks, Amy. I’ve reflected the long shadows all my life… I really don’t know why? Our Father can speak through anyone and anything! Thanks for sending my mind in that direction!
Joanne Norton
Wednesday, April 2, 2014 @ 5:31 pm
As usual, this is good thinking, and good sharing, Brother. The last paragraph covers things very straightforwardly and very truthfully re: what you/we must go through, rely upon. Being on His mighty hand is sometimes all I can count on. Otherwise, this present-day world causes me to cringe and freak out. Thanks again. Making people think clearly and turn to the Lord dearly. That’s what counts…
Hazel Moon
Saturday, April 5, 2014 @ 2:55 pm
Thank you for your entry at “Tell Me a Story.” I have been off line due to computer failure and virus problems, Robert gave me a different computer so I am back on line. Please return Monday around 5:00PM PST when the new week will be open for your story at: http://letmetelluastory.blogspot.com/
Floyd
Sunday, April 6, 2014 @ 7:52 am
Thanks, Hazel. You’ve had a tough go! Glad to hear your wonderful site is up and running again!