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Pause

Term has officially begun and intensive academics are in full swing. I am discovering how to take advantage of all 103 libraries in Oxford! I have also discovered a secret, underground tunnel that connects two of the main libraries. The city buzzes with life as students whiz down the streets on bikes headed to lectures and walkers attempt to avoid tourist traffic by taking the backstreets. Essay deadlines are weighing upon the shoulders of students, sports trials are creating nervous butterflies in our stomachs, events, balls, debates, and seminars all demand for a little piece of our time, and so the term's business begins.
Sometimes, I feel swept up by the hectic whirl of events. Then I remember to pause, to breathe deep the peace of God, and to acknowledge His presence, which is always with me. Before the day starts, I like to enjoy the peace the morning offers.
This morning, I walked through the city to capture some photos of the calm before the business storm. Prior to the hustle and bustle, Oxford wakes up in a lovely way. The glow of the street lights begin to fade as the sky brings in light. If we're lucky, the sun comes to say hello, glimmering on the buildings before hiding behind the mass of moving clouds. Bakeries are hard at work, evident in the tempting smell of freshly baked pastries. Local sellers in the market begin to set up for a long day of bargaining. Children huddled in jumpers, scarves, and gloves walk beside their parent on their way to school. The morning offers a fresh start to a new day, the promise of hope clings in the air as the entire day lies before you an adventure to be discovered
.
May you remember to look up in the business of life and acknowledge the One who has given you this day. To take time out of your day to pause and enjoy the presence of your Almighty Creator and Heavenly Father.
All my love,
Gennavieve

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