I woke up to the sound of a bulldozer knocking down trees next to my home. The woods that offered privacy, shade and homes for the animals are no more. Poof.
I stood at the kitchen window in horror as trees were tossed carelessly into a dumpster. Their life and the years they stood became irrelevant in the path of progress.
The last few days the machine’s have been still, and that’s been much needed. I knew the two lots were for sale, but didn’t realize they’d sold. Someone is building a couple of houses there, with one facing the street I live on, and another one facing the street behind me. My daughter and I had no warning this was about to happen. It all transpired within a moment’s notice.
This morning I sat in silence on my bench in the front yard for the first time in days. The one positive I’ve noticed is there’s more light with less trees. Over the weekend I was still adjusting to the new landscape, or the lack thereof and texted my daughter. I felt helpless over the situation and was distraught over the woods being gone. Then my daughter responded with this nugget of wisdom.
“I understand Momma. I wish we would’ve had a head’s up, but maybe it’s better that we didn’t”. ~My daughter.
When God wants us to stand still and trust in His plan, we relinquish control. Instead of focusing on what’s gone, I can appreciate what this change brought, such as more light and a cool breeze entering the yard. We won’t see His full plan immediately, but He’s watching how we behave in a moment’s notice.
Letitgocoach 
Humph. I’m still back at your first two paragraphs and mourning the trees, feeling bereft for all the wildlife that built their nests, and foraged and played there and will now have to see if they can manage in another territory, already occupied. Of course, we have to adjust, but bulldozing is one of the harder things I adapt to. 🙁
LikeLiked by 2 people
I always feel bad for the wildlife when I see people clearing land for homes. It’s good you’re choosing to see the good. I find that the times where I have to respond in a moment’s notice are not my best moments. I’m at my best when I have time to process and percolate. Xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
I do too lovely. Hah. It wasn’t easy to find myself it that moment, but I’ve learned that everything works out eventually. This week, the heavy machinery has been broken down, so God’s giving me some time to percolate. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
At the very least, I hope you will have good neighbors.🤍
LikeLiked by 2 people
Me too darling! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reading this I have two conflicting things..one..as an act of will I am thankful..mostly that you are wise enough to dwell on God’s sovereignty and being thankful that He has a plan and he is in the mic. At the same time, there is a low grade grief. I’ve experienced it before when I’ve seen a beautiful mature timber that someone owns, and has ever right to do whatever they want with it, fall to the bull dozer and back hoe….Thoughtful post Barb. DM
LikeLike
Oh my. What a shock and yes, would it have made any difference if you had warning. Especially if you couldn’t stop it.
I hope things turn out ok in the long run and you get good neighbours.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hey Liz and thank you. The only thing that comes to mind is, I would have met with the city to make sure the older trees were spared. Here in Texas, you’re not supposed to cut down any of the matured oak trees, but this builder missed that memo! That’s really all I would have done, but even that wouldn’t have stopped it. This is where I remind myself to live up to the name, Letitgocoach. 😂
LikeLiked by 1 person
With the mature trees already cut down, will they find they be in trouble for that?
LikeLike
I normally “like” your posts, but I can’t like this one. Makes me want to cry, but thankful you’re trying to see any good you can in the situation.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aw. Your move was divine my darling. Just holding the promises. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
I love you and miss you immensely! ❤
LikeLike
Hi Barb,
Good for you for not dwelling on what you are losing but looking for, and embracing, what you are gaining.
Blessings! ♥♥
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Ana. He has a plan! Many blessings to you. xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Geez, that was almost traumatic to read. I hope you get good neighbors to go along with the additional light!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s my hope too Gary! Good neighbors and I love the extra light! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person