This photo reminds me of a lesson about savoring a moment. We had high hopes. They were exceeded beyond our wildest dreams. And it took very little more than to open our eyes and be present. The memories of joy and satisfaction warm me.
About 6 years ago, widowed for a year, away from his home of 60 years, my father enjoyed a little core family reunion that we, his children, staged. The aim was to get Bill and his sole surviving sibling, Alyce, together with his children and my wife to enjoy a weekend while we still could.
We went for a walk at nearby Ballard Nature Center. Wildflowers bloomed. A tree frog perched atop a post. The air clear and inviting. Filming as I trailed our little group, I saw my father pause to look around and savor the little wonders all around us. In this photo, we sat — allowing the wonder and sunshine to soak in. That's one lesson I take from that day.
We may have some disappointment today. Hopes aren't met. Expectations were too high. But let us not miss the little wonders. Small blossoms.
Today, I woke to the dawn chorus. I'll hike with some dear friends before the summer heat sets in. We'll walk in worship of the wonders of this world. Hearts will be open. Allowing the little wonders.