Combustible Compassion

On By K.L. HaleIn Poetry

Frigid temperatures imitate the iciness of indifference. Consideration, camaraderie, and a cup of coffee poured with the love of Christ create combustible compassion.

Civil and cordial conversations confirm the collaboration.

K.L. Hale

Let’s light it, pour it, and spread it.

Featured photos by Charles and Kim Elrod, aka, “Canyon Crew”, my hiking tribe. Glory Hole Falls, Ozone, AR (Hiking area in Newton County, AR)

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Embracing imperfection with faith, flannel, and fresh air

K.L. Hale

“Frigid temperatures imitate the iciness of indifference. Consideration, camaraderie, and a cup of coffee poured with the love of Christ create combustible compassion.” K.L. Hale

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88 thoughts on “Combustible Compassion”


  1. Great ice! Good wintry pics to highlight the writing. Thanks for the reminders to be kind, share compassion, camaraderie, consideration, and of course, coffee! I think I will go make a cuppa. 

    That is inspiring writing!

    Thank you for this, Karla. God bless all five feet at your house!

    Reply

    1. Sip sip hooray my dear friend! Thank you, Tim. I’m sipping a cuppa right now, reading Tozer! A friend stopped by this morning for coffee. She’s an inspiration to me. My hiking tribe is out doing their thing. I ask God, “What’s my thing?” I’m here, Tim. And I best keep sharing the warmth of that miracle while I can and know that “To everything turn, turn, turn,…there is a season turn, turn, turn,…” and keep sharing his love and promise! I’m living proof. As always, you lift and encourage me! I giggled at the 5 feet~I had just told my friend, MAK, that us “5 feet from MO send our love”. We’re sending that and blessings to your 6 feet. Or as you’d say, “God bless your socks off!”

      Reply


  2. Oh Karla, these pictures are a delight. Nature sharing something so incredibly beautiful. I bet they brought a smile. You too will be there soon, even if your crew has to throw you on the back of a motorbike to reach it. Hope you are going well kind lady and the sunshine is dancing along your life too 🤣❤️🙏

    Reply

    1. Mark, it’s so good to “see” you this side of the sea! We’re waving 👋🏻! Hmm. About the motorbike~it might be a bit risky. I laughed telling my twin I have a new writing piece ~”calculating risks”. But oh his I love the idea.
      How is your website? Are you up and running~with the waves? After days of letting my faucets drip, it’s so wonderful to let my dreams drip! Now my body~it just needs to catch up. It knows not the difference between day and night; nor what to eat at times~I’d say this cancer is a full time gig right now. I’m glad to get the case of giggles, too. I’m happy and blessed to be here. And so glad you are too! Sending many blessings and love to the great Down Under. It must be beautiful there. I pray you’re well! ❤️🙏🏻☀️💕

      Reply


      1. Waving back to you both Karla, and trying to wag my tail and bark too 🤣 Don’t know what the neighbors will think…but who cares, its just love waving hello 😂

        Ok, maybe the motorbike could be a bit risky, but oh the adrenal rush. Probably fix everything in a wink 🤣

        The body is an amazing thing. My journey through my health has indeed done some incredible things. I get to truly see and feel me, and those things in life I held…for too long in fear, those holding patterns slowly changing me physically and emotionally. Each one I go through I can actually feel the ‘let go’, and a change to just be me again.

        Ah life, we are indeed being given a very profound and beautiful gift kind lady. To touch all these things and realize the love calling us behind it all. We are doing ok or we wouldn’t be feeling that understanding within my friend. And you are doing it well ❤️🙏

        So, in the meantime of all this, you have this ‘crew’ dancing on the trails to encourage you to take a step in your boots. You will kind lady, He has much for you to see on this path, be it in boots or heart…or both 🤣

        Big hugs to you and Finn from down under, and if you wish I will send a little warmth over your way. We are supposed to be getting 47C by the end of this week for a few days so I think we can spare 10 degree’s or so. A little heat wave to make us appreciate those lovely ocean waters as you appreciate those ice crystals in temperatures that I can only imagine. The most I get mid winter is the odd frost and being on the Mid North Coast even that is rare 😂

        Have a beautiful day whatever it is Karla, it dances and sings so we can see that beauty is indeed all around us, hot, cold or anywhere in between 😀❤️🙏

      2. Mark, your words are a book of wisdom~oozing with love, laughs, and truth. I love it! I know the plans he’s making are for my good~and that’s the “goodest” for me! 🤭😂
        Our health “holding” patterns did turn to a “release” in fear. I felt that the first time I met you. And now I’m experiencing it in my life. And don’t worry about your neighbors~they’ll get a hoot of you wagging and waving your tail!
        Today it’s a heat wave~soon we’ll be in the 50’s! Yay! The cold makes me appreciate the warm~the warm makes me appreciate the cold. I like living with a “win win” mindset. Winter is beautiful to me. I like the serenity and snow. The ice…it’s pretty to see~I’m so thankful for a roof over my head. And shoes on my feet. For everything. Have a beautiful day, too! 🩵💙💕🙏🏻🎶🎶


      3. Oh, I forgot. The site should be back up soon, and thank you for those many beautiful blessings Karla. They are returned in kind dear lady, thank you 😀❤️🙏

    1. They are! Thank you, MAK! I’ll share that! 🩵💙🐾 they told of a story of a lady who broke her leg while they were there~and some amazing hiking helpers who waited with her, cared for her, until EMT arrived. 🙏🏻

      Reply


  4. So beautiful! Really helps me look past the discomfort of winter and realize there is indeed beauty to be found there. Thanks for brightening up your fans’ worlds with this thoughtful post.

    Reply
  6. Ginger Salvatore's avatar Ginger Salvatore

    Karla, these photographs are outstanding. With all the ugly, dirty snow piles created by plows, slushy sidewalks and streets OR ice covered sidewalks and streets, bare trees, dark skies, etc., there is absolutely an awesome beauty in winter that we often overlook. This is ice I can admire. Then again, I don’t have to try to walk on it! Lol!

    Does sweet Miss Finley like the snow? Our Murphy loved it. Even with three legs she flew through it like a Greyhound! And she loved catching snowballs! But it took about 1/2 hour to towel her off, get the packed snow out of her paws, and then blow dry her from head to toes. Sometimes I wouldn’t let her see the blow dryer and she would just lay there looking sorrowful until I got it and plugged it in. THEN I had to massage her lotion into her paws and on her nose to keep everything soft and protected.

    This year I think most of your winter adventures will be from looking out your window and thumbing through albums and using your imagination. BUT, next year! Ahhh, next year will tell a very different story my friend. You and sweet Miss Finley will be frolicking in the snow and we’ll get to see the photos YOU took.

    Use the winter weather to hunker down inside where it’s warm and dry and concentrate on healing, regaining strength, and daydreaming about what the “new you” will accomplish. Great things are in store for you, but patience is key to achieve it.

    You and your family, which includes sweet Miss Finley, are in my prayers as always. Keep warm. Keep your spirit up. Keep on truckin’. Keep the faith.

    Love, Ginger💞

    Sent from my iPad

    >

    Reply

    1. Aw, Ginger…you always hit the nail on the head so “gently”. The pictures are so amazing. I love hiking for icefalls. It’s been a few years~and yes, next year may be a different story! As I’m “laid” out tonight I dream of those times. We are frolicking in faith right now, Ginger!
      Finn loves snow ❄️. We haven’t hardly had any! Frigid temps, some ice, now wet,…but she does love the white stuff! I love snow too.

      I can see sweet Murphy catching snowballs; his precious with the blow dryer and packed snow. I can imagine the time it took to thaw out those cute dog paws/toes. And lotion to keep them soft. My heart had a meltdown reading that cuteness!

      I’m winning, Ginger. I have challenges like we all do. Window watching is a necessity some days~and I’ve got my keyboard to keep me connected with encouragers like you to keep me going and dreaming! And to keep sharing about the miracles.

      In between visits and days I’m “frozen” in my steps, I’ll keep taking steps forward! I’ll take lots of pics when I’m able to get out and about!
      “New You”~I thought a lot about that. Wow. I’m finding who I was as a little girl with faith~and years of winters and wisdom have accumulated ~and many more to learn even more, I pray, will keep me grounded always in what matters most.

      I know I speak for my family in saying thank you for praying for us all. We will keep on keepin’ on, precious friend. I pray that for you, too!! We love you!
      🩵💙🙏🏻❄️

      Reply

      2. Thank you, Dwight! I’ll try at least once a week—here I go! Like us ALL—some hours I’m stronger than others. My life is full and blessed. Today is my support group day by ZOOM (it’s helped me so much). I’ll have an appointment and hard to believe next week will bring another treatment already. It seems that treatment side effects might last a bit longer than expected. With time, I bet this will dissipate? Or I pray it does. I’m to return to Maryland soon—but I requested to possibly wait until March as I’m seeing my oncologist here on a regular basis. I’ll do whatever they request! Our goal is to keep the cancer from returning to the liver. We will continue treating what’s in the bones and my diet is a day to day process. I’m trying to exercise at LEAST 150 minutes a week. I’m winning and I couldn’t do it without faith, Dwight. I’ll never waste the prayers and strength offered on my behalf. To think I have so many praying, like you and your wife, brings tears to my eyes. Grateful is an understatement! God bless you both! Please take care, too.

  8. Susan Gillen's avatar Susan Gillen

    Perfect poetry! 💗Thank you for writing & sharing! Hugs, Sue

    Sent from my iPhone

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    Reply

    1. Matthew~It’s so good to see you, my friend. Often, I’ve thought of you and your precious family. I know how hard you’re out there working for the goodness of God! Thank you for being here and sharing your kindness. I appreciate it! I’m glad you “see” the picture I painted!

      Reply

      1. Thanks for your kind words! Thanks to the blog prompts this month, I’m enjoying getting back in the groove. My goal this year is to return to writing and hopefully start a podcast, maybe publish a book, and who knows what else?!?

      2. It’s my pleasure! How exciting! I feel your enthusiasm and it gives me a boost! I’m so proud of you! “Who knows what else?!?”…now that’s the spirit! Yay!🙏🏻👏🏻


  12. The frozen falls photo is stunning! Karla, seeing a post from you in my inbox always generates a smile, even before reading. Your “combustible” compassion and faith bring warmth with each word. God bless you!

    Reply

    1. Manette, you are so kind! That made me smile huge. My soul smiled, too. That means so much to me! I’ve had warm moments, based on faith and love~I can’t help but share it! Thank you for cozying up with me in it! God bless you, too. ♥️

      Reply

      4. Thank you so much. You are so thoughtful and kind, sweet friend. Much love to you, too! You do help, by the way~when I see you dancing, read your freedom words of nature and love, the song choices~your place is inspiring!💛🙏🏻🎶💕

      5. I have the good fortune of reading you this morning. A most inspiring and encouraging comment that I am going to print and keep nearby. Thank you. Wishing a peaceful day, beautiful friend. 💞

    1. Kelley, thank you so much! I consider you are professional poet. It means so much for you to stop by and share your love and support. I appreciate you so much! Yes, it’s warming up here and I’m safe and blessed. I pray that for you and yours, my friend. 💛

      Reply


  15. Karla I adored the poem! I’m prepping for the big thaw (supposed to get up to 40℉ by Saturday ) and have the towels handy – the condo has a basement leak that was dry but with the rain/freezing rain/thawing snow there is a growing puddle!! Mochi thinks the snow is dangerous and doesn’t want to walk in it… Then she forgets and jumps into a pile and acts shocked that it is so cold! She was wearing her red booties and her red raincoat and looked too cute. I’ve got to get a photo to share! Hope the combustible compassion warms you up!! 🙏😊❄☕

    Reply

    1. Val, I’m SO SORRY to hear of the leak in the basement. Another friend out East had pipe bursts. I imagine good people walking around, living in faith and singing praises,…a pipe bursts, water leaks, a window is faulty,..and then, “Hey! What the life??” Oh boy! Seasons hurt! Yet, through your words and picturing Mochi in her red gear, I hear the joy in your voice! Now that’s faith, my friend. 🙂 I appreciate you so much. Thank you for your kind words, prayers (I was thinking of your warriors last night), and support! The compassion HAS warmed me up. Without it, the last two weeks wouldn’t have me frozen in fear! It’s already 40 degrees here, Val. I’ll be wearing shorts if it hits 55 next week 😉 (not really). Much love and compassion for you! And give Mochi belly rubs (I’m sure all your readers would love a pic, …pretty please). 🩵💕🐕‍🦺

      Reply

    1. Singing our song 🎶!!! Thank YOU, dear friend. I hear the music and see the train…is that, JOY? We’re hugging and laughing! Now capture that, my friend! You’re a JOY! I love you! ❤️ You’re so kind and thoughtful! Thank you 🥰

      Reply

    1. Good morning, Pete! Aren’t they stunning? Hikers, like myself 🙂 will say, “It’s not the weather, but how you dress for it!” Many layers! As long as I can feel my feet I always wish for them to move in nature. But there are days…nothing. 🙂 Thank you for stopping by. I hear you singing this morning! Many blessings!

      Reply

  19. Good morning my precious friend. The photos are incredible!

    “Consideration, camaraderie, and a cup of coffee poured with the love of Christ create combustible compassion.”

    Your words are powerful… the love of Christ how deep and how wide!
    Prayers and love sent to you this morning 🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

    Reply

    1. Good morning, precious Pam! Thank you so much! You’ve been on my heart and mind. You always lift and encourage me. When I visited your place yesterday I was blown away by all the table “scapes” and pictures for the Valentine’s season. The words, pictures (and happy 51st anniversary soon!) never cease to amaze me! I was unable to comment (still trying to figure that one out? I can sometimes…but others…). But specifically, the cards and letters you and Butch write touch my heart. The red stemware and huge Kisses (my grandma always had them sitting out too and my Mom keeps candy out!). I have kisses on my kitchen tablet right now, too :-). The velvet red and pinks brightened my day. Especially the Camellias. Wow. And the added touch of nature made them stand out! I just HAD to share this morning before it left my mind completely :-). I really don’t know what I’d do without the love of our Creator. How does anyone have hope? Or to whom or how is it harnessed or grown? Things of this world can seem hopeless. I’m so happy to love our God who knows that faith, and the “growth” of it is a human process-he loves us no matter what. “How deep and wide!” I love that! Thank you for being a constant source of insight and inspiration. Tell Butch how I loved the fact he drove the truck to a certain spot to grab that sunset picture. Those are the moments that make life so sweet and precious! I pray for you both; may his health stay well enough to keep living the full life God has given! I love you! 💕🙏

      Reply

      1. It’s my honor. It takes awhile cuz it doesn’t come up in my feed even though you are in my favorites!!! It’s my please, always!!! awww thanks and I you!❤️💕❤️

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