Earlier this week I woke up to a winter wonderland. The first snowfall of the season. A bright red cardinal was the only contrast to the glistening whiteness outside. Delightful!
Then, a shift!
“Oh no”, I thought, “am I snow bound? How can I shovel all of this snow?” Sciatica!
I called a friend to ask her if she knew anyone who could help shovel. Within minutes, she appeared and then two other friends, albeit young ones.
Then, a shift! A heartache? Yes.
“Why can’t I do this.” I was able to do it just a few years ago. “I can take care of myself” is my mantra.
Then, a shift again. Lightheartedness this time. With humility and gratitude, I embraced their help. All done! Walkways, porch, car, all cleared. “Thank you guys”. A joyful, tearful, thank you.
As I sipped my coffee, I realized that aging is a spiritual practice. Yes, feel the aches but embrace the joy. Acceptance.
My partner and I had several health challenges this year, overcoming many of them. But, let’s not compare our MRI’s, our lab results, or how many colorful tablets we sort out in the pill boxes so we don’t forget to take them. Feel the aches, embrace the joy.
Our children and grandchildren bring us much joy. So many accomplishments this past year. Our gardens bring us joy. Our slower and shorter walks in Nature still are joyful. Viewing aging as a spiritual practice brings us joy. Each walk, each budding flower, each snowfall, each song, each new day opens our hearts to the poignancy and beauty of every luminous precious moment. Worldly and personal storms are inevitable. Aging is inevitable. When we embody our wisest and best selves, we embrace the graces of humility and gratitude. Here we find shelter from the storm. Yes, feel the aches. Embrace the joy!
Much love, light, and blessings to all.
Holiday wishes! Let’s celebrate the New Year with love, humility and much gratitude. May you be healthy, wealthy in heart, and wise. May all beings be safe, joyful, well, and free.
“Gratitude is the highest blossom.which springs from the soul.”~
Henry Ward Beecher
That was beautiful. Aging is a blessing!!
The Menorah image I see as a man with open arms holding the presence (presents) of light. 🙏🏽
Beautifully expressed, Franny. Thank you. Linda
That is a beautiful perspective Franny and one that we should all try to embrace. Thank you for sharing. Peace, Love and Joy!