Variety Is Living In Kansas

After moving to the Flinthills in November 2001, my family and I have experienced a variety of seasons during the course of a single day. This phenomenon often occurs during the months of March and October. However, each season appears to be precisely balanced and equal to each other. I have noticed over the past twelve years that 91 days is exactly the length of each season, even though summer is actually 93 and winter is 89. Yet, here in Kansas we live on level ground, which always provides us with a sense of balance even during a day when all four seasons come and visit.

Our sense of place here in Kansas has given us an appreciation for how the people reflect their environment. Being level or balanced is probably the most prevalent attribute I can identify. Another attribute I appreciate is what appears to be an even kiel or centeredness. This balanced and centered characteristic serves us Kansans well when the weather changes swiftly and our best laid plans require alterations.

As we continue to face the swiftly changing weather patterns of our daily lives, may that which is best for all of life come to pass as we act within our reflection of a sense of place, which always provides us with a level head and even kiel.


written by  the Reverend Dr.  Matthew Cobb

As a member of the Disaster Spiritual Care Response Team of the American Red Cross there have been many testimonials I have heard and read from countless volunteers. Most testimonials are a grateful witness to simply being there with the people in the midst of their suffering and loss.

Well, after being there on Staten Island for two weeks post "Tsunami Sandy," the memories that sustain me are those made whenever I let go of my agendas and let come their agenda. Often, often, often it was listening without the urge or need to give a reply or response. What I discovered was that most of the suffering was caused by not having someone there to listen this way, in the silence where nothing can be immediately fixed or solved, only touched by being there.

All five of these souls lost everything, yet when I listened to them share their grateful witness of Mother Nature's fierce power and this fragile life we are given, I was reminded of a blessed simplicity that too often goes unnoticed and thereby untouched and unaccepted by many of us busy souls. That is when it dawned on me, life is really all about waking up and noticing who and what is present in my physical, psychological and spiritual sensations. How may I learn to be there and notice that it is all too swiftly passing away? If I learn to notice, perhaps I may accept that it is as it is for a blessed simplicity, grace upon grace.

Please comment and share what and who you notice. How have you learned to accept life as it is right now? Thank you!

~ Father Matt