Open
Spaces Vol.: 20.8
By John W. Vander Velden
August 26, 2020
Now that August comes to its conclusion, we know that
summer is nearing its end. I hope you have found ways to enjoy your summer. For
most, Jackie and I included, the summer of 2020 has been unique.
We did not take our usual summer escape this year.
Dreams of Door County, Wisconsin will remain for another time. But we haven’t
remained locked behind our doors either. Of course there is work’s demands.
Work being very different for the two of us. My work is very close to home,
Jackie’s is...well a little further away. Yet we have enjoyed the summer within
its limitations.
I feel that every day is a gift from GOD. Even days
under the shadow of a pandemic. The attitude makes it easier to get out of bed
in the morning. Yet it remains difficult at times to be excited by EVERY new
day, but I believe being so motivated is worth the effort. You may find comfort
in the fact that I do FAIL to find rosy glasses some morning. Maybe more often than
some.
Here the school year is beginning. COVID-19 shapes the
way schools have opened. Many continue off sight learning. E-learning it is
often called. It strains teachers, students, and parents, trying to find the
best ways to teach, the best ways to protect children and staff. Things will
remain different for a time, but I am confident it is only temporary.
Though our
school years are behind us, behind our son’s well, the virus yet influences our
lives. Jackie and I do our part. We wear our masks, avoid crowds, practice
social distancing, use hand sanitizer often, and wash our hands. We recognize
that all of us face this danger together, and small things can make big
differences. And fortunately our household remains well.
It is our hope that yours is also.
Now for a bit of writing news.
Next week I begin revising the draft I completed in
May. Taking on that project in earnest means the other project on which I had
been working must be set aside. Though I regret leaving the book length work I
have worked upon these months incomplete, I know I will return to it on my next
“dead writing time”, such as when I send
the revisions to the editor. I have no idea how much time will be needed for
this first revision, but it is my hope to complete it early next year.
I will keep you posted.
Now I have reached the end of this installment of “Open Spaces”. Take care my friends, make
your choices carefully, consider the needs of others, especially the weak and
vulnerable, share kindness, and above all remember that GOD loves you.
May His love comfort you and ease your mind during these
unprecedented times, and that He guide your feet to open spaces where you will
find peace.
With CHRIST’s love, and blessings,
John W. Vander Velden
Author of Misty
Creek and Elizabeth’s Journey
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