The human impulse to create and find meaning is a gift of grace. Grace is the opposite of “expectations” because it is so, well, unexpected. And, interestingly enough, grace is at the center of Great Expectations. ~Karen Swallow Prior, Booked, Chapter 4, “The Magic of Story: Great Expectations”
What I came to understand is that in ceasing the futile attempt to be something I was not able or meant to be, and in striving to discover and be the person I was created to be, I would be a better self. The real disgrace was not in being kicked out of The Group, but in failing to fully embrace the grace that had made me who I was by trying to be something I was not. ~Karen Swallow Prior, Booked, “Beholding in Becoming: Jane Eyre”
With grace, the march of time offers redemption: lost opportunities do not mean that all is lost; grave mistakes can be transformed into blessings over time. It is never too late for God to come knocking on your door. ~Karen Swallow Prior, Booked, chapter 6, “The Only Thing Between Me and Tragedy: Tess of the D’Urbervilles”
The High Calling book club is discussing chapters 4-6 of Booked: Literature in the Soul of Me by Karen Swallow Prior. These quotes stood out to me. Come on over to see how her words have touched others.
In the stillness,
Sandy
Oh, I just discovered this site this week, so I’m linking up. Maybe I can learn something.
Beautiful images!
Thank you, Shelli!
This is such a wonderful book. I read it over and over….and will keep coming back to it in seasons I know. Grateful to Dr Karen Swallow Prior for writing it.
Mine is falling apart already. And it will be good to have next to me when I read the books she talks about.
What beautiful pictures!
Thanks so much, Bek.
These are beautiful! I love how you’re using your talent to encourage others, and to share good work. Simply put, to create. 🙂
😀
Beautiful group of photos!
Thank you, Janine. I was driving down my daughter’s long driveway, and the sun was shining just so across the field. I just had to run home for my camera. 🙂
Just beautiful!
Thanks, Sarah!
The teasel and wild carrot are familiar plants to me…both fascinating structures to observe in any season. You’ve captured both so well.
I can never remember that it’s called “teasel.” Thank you. And in Oregon, do you call the wild carrot Queen Anne’s lace? And you’re right–they are beautiful in all seasons. Thank you for coming by.
Overlapping a photo series with series of quotes: pleasing meditative qualities. Greatly admire the snaps of frigid beauty.
“Frigid beauty.” I love that. Yes, it was cold. 🙂
I love that second photo as well as your inspiring words. 🙂
Thanks! I love the snow kisses in these. 🙂
I am so happy to have found your beautiful work!