By Ralphine Major

It can often provide a time of quiet reflection—the first snowfall of winter.  The sight of snowflakes drifting aimlessly to the ground creates a sense of wonder for all ages.  Its presence slows the pace of ordinary days and brings a beauty to the barren land.  A single snowflake is barely noticed; but when  matched by millions, they change our world.

There are many wintry scenes to enjoy with a new fallen snow, such as children sledding down sloping yards and fields.  Many adults get excited to hear of a snowy forecast, too.  Even the animals enjoy the falling flakes of white as shown in this picture of a beautiful horse releasing his cabin fever as he gallops to get a drink.  In the quiet moments of snow-filled days, it is almost impossible not to be reminded of special scriptures in the Old Testament.  The beautiful words of Psalms 51:7 provided the basis of James Nicholson’s “Whiter Than Snow” hymn:  “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow” (KJV).  From the book of Isaiah 1:18 is another reference to snow that brings to mind another great hymn:  “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord:  though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool” (KJV).

Almost as quickly as it comes, the snow quietly leaves.  Ordinary days return.  And after the winter, comes the spring.

 

Piddle Diddle Update:  Saturday, February 13, 2-4 p.m., book signing and pictures may be taken with Piddle Diddle in costume at Barnes & Noble, 8029 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, (865)670-0773.