Gratitude

As old leaves are cleared out and spring emerges with a flurry of plant and animal life, I am remembering the abundance of the past year.  I feel grateful for the bounty, gifts, and provisions that came into my life in the midst of uncertain times.  I have been cared for in numerous ways.  My life is rich and full.  Now even the smallest events are exquisite miracles:  a bud opening to become a beautiful blossom or bright green leaf, the colorful call of my local mockingbird, the scent of lily of the valley or lilacs on the breeze, or being present to observe a tiny jumping spider behaving in shy ways.  Unlimited beauty and interaction are ours to be received and enjoyed, coming as abundant gifts that evoke instant gratitude and appreciation.

"I once had a sparrow alight upon my shoulder for a moment, while I was hoeing in a village garden, and I felt that I was more distinguished by that circumstance than I should have been by any epaulet I could have worn."         --Henry David Thoreau