I saw her for the first time today.
She’s sat there for probably 150 years, and I’ve passed her by 150 times–or more.
I don’t know what caught my eye on this gray misty day.
I don’t know what forced me to halt the Journey half on road, half in ditch and gaze on her in awe–then to creep forward and backward for different perspectives.
Maybe the way she’d festooned her aging frame in yellow, green, and gold.
Maybe the way I could see straight through her, a window to what lay behind.
I wondered about her story.
How was she born?
Did she house animals or machinery?
Did her belly burst with corn?
Did life revolve around her?
Now she sits still on the stubble of a harvest.
Weathered and worn, broken and bowed.
Idled and idyllic.
A silent testimony to the past.
A legacy of the land.
If I listen close, I think I hear her breathing, humming a hymn of praise.
Her song has not been stilled. Her purpose is to praise.
And I realize her beauty is in simply being.
Wow, lovely photos (I’m a total sucker for old barns) and loved the words you wrote to accompany the photos. Just beautiful.
I’m so glad you’re here, Kateri. Thank you!
You’re a Michigan girl! 🙂
This is stunning, Sandy. I have loved your entire series. And you know, I’ve actually seen this very thing happen with old saints – you begin to see through them to the beauty that awaits us all. That my story might be such as that!! Thanks for tackling this tough one, friend. You’ve done it up right.
Oh, thank you so much, Diana.
And thanks for hanging with me last night. 😉
Gorgeous photos. And so fun to dream about the possible stories of this (ex-)lovely old place!
Thanks, Kati! I find so much beauty in these old buildings.
Beautifully written with beautiful photos as well. I’ve enjoyed this series that has reflected on some of the deeply hidden thoughts in all of us. Your courage and faithfulness in writing it is inspiring, Sandy. I believe you’ve changed the lens through which we see ourselves and those around us…all from your keyboard. No small task.
Wow. Thanks, Marilyn. I know it’s changed my own lens. Now maybe I can breathe and get around to visit other participants! You know, when you get old, things take longer, and you tire faster. 😉
“Beauty in just simply being . . .” If all of us could have eyes to see the beauty in every person simply because “they are”, created in God’s image . . .
Wonderful photos that certainly create a feeling of nostalgia and longing. Beautiful, Sandy!
Blessings!
Just because they are–in His image. Yes. Thank you, Martha!
This has been a remarkable series. What beauty awaits us.
Thanks, Susan. Goodness, I’ve got some catching up to do at your house. Heat up the tea kettle please…
I wonder these things about old buildings…Our community poem is about rest for the weary and worn…won’t you come and play?
Been there. 🙂
Proof that some things (people) really do become better with age. Lovely photos.
Indeed! Thanks, Brandee.
a barn burgeoning with promise… oh sandra. i love how you love, and how you see.
i love this, Sandra…..i feel her song too.
so glad you shared this treasure,
Jennifer