Thanksgiving Day, 2017

It is always worthwhile to remind ourselves of those things that lift us up, or that give meaning and purpose to our lives. The source of what we say or do, those who inspire us, places and activities where we can find a moment’s rest are good places to start. A beautiful sky is surely among them. So is a soft breeze, falling leaves, and the sound of waves that lap the shore. My two grand daughters never cease to rejuvenate my faith in the innocence of youth, the joy of laughter, and the beauty of a smile. I can feel the touch of heaven in their small hands, while their smiling eyes pierce my soul. And those quiet moments of solitude away from all the mundane chores, the stillness of a moment’s meditation. What would life be without music?-- the more the merrier. The wonder of a beautiful composition that fills the surroundings is a rare gift. And I cannot look outward to even a small part of the universe and not sense a connection with the mysterious and the continuity of all that it portends. Life on the plateau is my latest grounds for exploration. Now I can do with less, and I am better at it. I can think, and write, and create ideas with words. And these small activities let me connect with others I have never met, and will not meet until one glorious moment beyond all that I can see, or hear, or reach out to—when life begins anew—and new joys beyond my senses reveal new understandings, and new dimensions, and new opportuniies for being grateful. I have many reasons for being thankful today. Food for the body is OK, but food for the soul is better. There is time enough to improve my golf game.