F o o d   F o r   T h o u g h t

Early this morning, just before the break of dawn, my cat and I sat on the porch listening to the sounds which signal the beginning of a new day. First one bird then another calling from the silhouettes of trees. Rabbits in an empty lot taking their last snack before they sleep for the day.

The air is cool and this is the beginning of the fall season here in the Tennessee hills. All of nature has taken on a change of pace. People like to be outdoors in the crisp, cool air among the brightly colored leaves.

The forests have changed from shades of green to golden browns with areas of reds, yellows and many shades of orange. People feel better and little animals and birds scurry and flit about, harvesting all the food and seeds they can eat and store. The seeds are stored in nests and dens to be used when the weather is bad and they wake up hungry from one of their many winter naps.

Squirrels, woodpeckers and other creatures gather acorns to hide in the bark and holes of trees. Some bury them in the ground never to be found again and these will sprout and become the new trees of the forest. Many animals have lost their feeding grounds due to man's destruction and building of roads, parking lots and filling in of wetlands. We need to provide feeders and water for these little beings especially this time of the year. Some small animals will not make it through the winter if they don't store back enough fat. So not only are we providing food for these little ones but we also get to enjoy their beauty and uniqueness.

The Bible says there is a season for everything under the sun. For people and all other creatures this is the season for planning and preparation. In your planning, consider the woodland creatures in remembrance of our Creator who has planned for our future.

Burney Tompkins

    - Uncle Burney