Winter 2011-2012

Those of us who live in the North may not be overly thrilled at the first snowfall, but perhaps we should think again.Carol Knapp of Big Lake, Alaska, tells about the first snowfall which came to her town in mid-October. At worship the next Sunday, the pastor asked how many were depressed by the season's first snowfall? Immeadiately a young man named Alex, who was an exchange student from Brazil, quipped, "Not depressed-impressed." The congregation laughed.

The lovliness of the snow covering Mother Earth can truly be impressive and a time of joy.Enjoy the dazzling beauty. Laugh with the children tumbling in the snow. Smile at the dogs hopping, leaping, barking as they try to race through the white miracle, snapping at the snowflakes. Cheerfully build a fire, make a warm drink, call a friend, settle down with a book of devotions, think of the immeasurable gifts of God and be grateful. Don't be depressed. Be impressed!