Pompeii
Walking precariously over the ancient cobblestone streets we stopped to gaze at the concrete mold made from the hollow of a previous human form caught in the onslaught of the volcanic calamity. As we gazed at the morphed form and the surrounding remains of ancient buildings, we were taken by our thoughts to a time long ago when Pompeii was a thriving tourist destination for well to do Romans. The inhabitants had no idea that on that day in 79 AD, their beloved destination would become their tomb beneath the tons of hot ash that were deposited from the eruption of Vesuvius. The natives and their hopes, dreams, and plans were long gone and there were we, gazing in the bright sun of Southern Italy at what remained of the uncovered paradise. Filled with wonder and awe at the sheer opportunity to gaze upon the spectacle of the remains and vicariously peek into the privileged life of a culture past, we gave thanks for that day and that time we were spending there. As we reflect today, we are again consumed with thoughts of gratitude for memories of past and the hope of opportunities both today and to come. Disease symptoms may at times limit and even inhibit, but at this moment we are thankful for this breath called life. Gratitude is the sweetener in the cup of life that satiates the thirsty heart!