Random Thoughts

“I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness – it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude.”                                 Brene Brown 

Fall brings mixed feelings for me but mostly, it’s a time of reflection. What I’ve come to love about the fall, especially here in Maryland, is how the environment starts changing. The deciduous nature of the trees reminds me of the need to embrace the differences in my world, forcing me to get rid of some things and reconsider others. Getting rid of old habits, attitudes, looking at things with new visibility. The beginning of things, the ending of things.  I was always taught to embrace the differences. My parents encouraged me to be different. To know that different doesn’t mean less than and/or worse. We all play a part in this life, we are all necessary each one bringing different attributes, talents, skill sets, what I like to think of as gifts, into the mix.  We can choose to use our gifts for good or for evil.

Just thinking, I’m convinced that people lash out when they are afraid or when they feel inadequate in some way. When things start to change, Instead of embracing something different they let fear and insecurity overtake them. Just think how boring this world would be if we were all alike, if we all thought the same, looked the same, did the same things. As I watch the changing of the leaves, I’m reminded of how much the leaves reflect the composition of the people in the world. Graced with all different colors, and shades, not to mention sizes, together we form the most spectacular kaleidoscope of splendor.  Nothing compares to the brilliance of the myriad of colors as the leaves change. They all are different, the colors are magnificent – from the different shades of orange, red, green, different shapes – some tall, some short – all beautiful and when you see them all together, a bouquet of loveliness – what a spectacular sight!  How truly blessed I am to be able to see and experience in such an intimate way, God’s handiwork. 

Today I choose gratitude. Today I choose to be thankful – not just because it’s a specific, designated day, but because I truly have so much to be thankful for.  Each day that I’m allowed to see a new dawn – each day that I experience being too cold or too hot is the perfect day. Today I’m happy, I’m sad, I’m joyful, I’m grateful and loving life and welcoming all that LIFE has for me!  I’m just saying……..