Comfort

The dictionary defines the word “comfort” as “to soothe, console, or reassure, to bring cheer to.” Being comfortable is important every day of our lives. But I think during the bleak winter, comfort is even more important.

What brings me comfort? First, and foremost, is my home. My home is my refuge from all the unpleasantness in the world, globally, nationally, and in my everyday life. Then there are the little things that I value. My flannel lined jeans. My morning coffee. A good book to read. One of my favorite winter things to do is going through my cookbooks to find a new recipe to try. It brings me joy and comfort to invite friends over for dinner and serve them a special meal I prepared.

My Labrador Retriever, Molly, is a tremendous sense of comfort. When I return home she is always glad to see me, with her tail wagging and that look of excitement in her eyes. She loves sitting in my lap licking my face, even when I don’t want her to do that.

And then there is my Bible. It is a source of strength and comfort when things just seem to get out of control.