Minister’s Message
February 1, 2010
Dear Friends,
Here it is, February, the last official winter month. I looked for quotes on February from poets and deep thinkers. This is what I found:
“February is merely as long as is needed to pass the time until March.” - Dr. J. R. Stockton
“Why, what's the matter,
That you have such a February face,
So full of frost, of storm and cloudiness?"” - William Shakespeare, Much Ado About Nothing
“The most serious charge which can be brought against New England is not Puritanism but February."” - Joseph Wood Krutch
Poor February. What did she ever do to deserve such ill will? This poor short month is maligned. Look what she offers us. The month begins with Groundhog Day. We wait with baited breath for the emergence of that great prognosticator and act accordingly. Does 6 more weeks of winter delay the onset of mud season? If so, I’m all for it. On the 14th of February every parent of every child in America sends sends red frosted cupcakes to school and makes sure that a valentine for every child in the class goes too. How many engagements take place on Valentine’s Day? How many boxes of chocolates are purchased? How many couples dine in or out by candlelight? Love is in the air on Valentine’s Day.
Then we celebrate two of our greatest presidents, Washington and Lincoln, by shopping and skiing. Every school child loves February because of vacation. Disney loves February because that’s where a lot of families go to escape the cold. Oh my goodness, I forgot the Superbowl!
It’s true; February’s weather can be rough. We always have a blizzard and we have had an ice storm. But - isn’t it wonderful when we huddle up at home, eat comfort food in front of the fire place and know that there are moments in life when we are meant to do nothing. Psalm 46 contains one of my favorite quotes: Be still and know that I am God. Shouldn’t that be a mantra for February. Weather is out of human control. There are moments of great joy in the uncontrollable weather and God is with us in all our times. Be still and appreciate the gifts of God that are found in February.
Affectionately,
Adrianne
Voice: (802) 862-5010 Fax: (802) 862-0960
E-Mail: fcb@firstchurchburlington.org