Silence and Noise

July 25th, 2025

I am sitting in a quaint little coffee shop in Birmingham,AL.  I’m surrounded by tables and chairs and at least four groups of two having conversations.  There’s a few people sitting alone, looking at their tablets and books.  I don’t know anyone within these walls but the things we have in common is almost overwhelming.  I only hear bits and pieces of conversations; not trying to listening but words seep through over the music playing and voices speaking. 

We all need food to survive, air to breathe; the basic needs of human survival.  But is it just survival that we all want (?).  

I came to this city for a two day trip as a birthday gift to myself.  I was fortunate enough to spend last evening at a popular local bookshop (Thank You Books) that  hosted novelist Patti Callahan Henry.  She is a local author with national acclaim.  

I first heard about Patti Callahan Henry just a few years ago.  Since finding her unique writing I have read all but one of her books, the latter is no longer available in print.  Through her beautiful writing I am able to completely immerse myself in her stories. 

I’m not here sharing any new revolutionary ideas about life.  I can only share my personal thoughts and experiences, and hope they connect with others.  When people tell you, and I promise they will,  “life is short” believe them.  Last year I turned 60, it has had some profound effects on my life.  As I have looked back over the six decades of my life, I ask myself “where did the time go?”  It seems like yesterday I was young and making bad decisions, experiencing life.  

Then, I adjust my focus and look forward, that is so much shorter than is comfortable for me. Many that know me, know that I have a faith and belief in God, and tomorrow is never promised.  I am so grateful for the life God has allowed me to live.  I often overthink and overwhelm myself with things that are completely out of my control as well as things I can’t change.  I fall short of giving my whole self to God, it frustrates me that I can’t just let go. The truth is, I am nothing without God. God loves me, this I know for sure. There’s nothing I can do or say to take His love away. So why do I fail in my trusting in God (?).  

I think I’m not good enough, haven’t learned enough and haven’t be punished enough for all the wrongs I’ve committed (literally and figuratively).   My brain and my heart are at war most of the time.  I think I’ve stumbled upon the cause, I’m fighting for control.  At some point in my life, I decided I know best!  

Now, that’s funny…I’m literally laughing at myself for this statement.  How very human of me!  All of humanity is born into sin, this is well documented in the book of Genesis.   Furthermore, God is all powerful, all knowing and is the creator of all things.  My life is a gift from God.  God created me on purpose and with a plan.  God’s timing is always, “on time.” Every single good thing in my life is directly from God, I am the beneficiary of His goodness. My  only responsibility is to “Trust & Obey.” And when I screw up, “Seek & Ask” for forgiveness; which is only possible through Christ Jesus, my “Redeemer & Savior.”

As I’m looking at another birthday, another ride around the sun…my heart is calmer, filled with love, memories and plans.  I will plan more trips to see places and people, share goodness and kindness with all God’s children. Life is too short for anger to fester, too short for regrets and is simply a gift, not to hold onto but to give away.   Share your gifts  with the world!  Share the love of Jesus.  

In the, in-between of silence and noise, if you listen with your whole heart you can hear God’s small still voice. 

1 Kings 19:12 (NIV) “After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lotd was not in the fire.  And after the fire came a gentle whisper.”

In closing, to the city of Birmingham, “Thank You” for your hospitality and friendly welcome.  

I was able to visit the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and The Museum of Art. Below are a few pictures.

Thanks for stopping by my blog! Love you all!

~Charlotte, Striving Towards Genuine Authentic Living As A Child Of God 💞