The Bonfire

Just imagine. You've donned your coziest sweater and hauled your blanket with you to the quiet clearing in the autumn trees. The ring of hay bales around the bonfire invite you to find a seat. The quiet murmur of the voices of friends and neighbors call to you to join them, and the aroma of apple cider fills the air.  The sticks are sharp and the marshmallows ready. You find your seat and say hello to your friends.  As your marshmallows turn golden brown, a cricket strikes up its solitary tune and the stars peep out.  You watch the dancing flames and twinkling coals and find your cares lulled asleep.  From somewhere across the ring of bales a lone soprano sings the first words of the old hymn, "Amazing Grace"  and voices young and old join in the lovely harmony.  Underneath the starlit sky your heart reaches for and touches God. What peace! What splendor!