Hunting caterpillars with my daughters – Heather H. Last ride on the Ferris Wheel – Mary Jo S. A goodnight text – Katie M. Swan Lake performed by a 7 year old in a tutu. Nanisa S. Stomping through puddles – Dana F.
I always love reading the answers to “What do you stay awake for?” at Caribou. They move me and remind me of how important it is to stop. And pay attention. And be present to the wonder that’s right in front of me.
Like a snuggle with my girls when they were toddlers and nothing else could possibly be more important…not the news of Clinton’s affair, or the war in the Gulf, or the latest development between Ross and Rachel on Friends.
The distractions are different now, but they’re still there…the things that threaten to keep me from missing my real life. And missing the wonder of God’s good gifts.
Now my babies are grown and I come back to the town where we grew up together. Where we delighted in walks around the wetlands and seeing the baby goslings each spring, and watching them turn into awkward ugly teenager geese.
Where we measured and marked the girls’ height each year on a wall in the basement and we marveled at all the other things that couldn’t be measured, like hope and character, and faith.
A friend of mine says, “I want to be counted among those easily impressed.” I agree. I want to be awake to wonder and live a life marked with gratitude.
So, today, I guess I’m thinking about turning off, well, everything…and paying attention to the sun on my face, and giving gentle and strong hugs and really seeing and being thankful for the dewy green shoots pushing through the winter earth, and making sure those I love know it.
Consider getting on your knees tonight and reviewing your day with thanksgiving. And then maybe send someone a good-night text. 🙂
What wonders are you noticing? What are you grateful for today?
