That Place

Overcast and cooler, the deck this morning is inviting. The puppy and her mother have played in the cool moist grass and Sebastian, the barn cat, has wandered by offering his somewhat aloof greeting. Tasks wait as we enjoy the splendor of the outdoor moments and revel in the gratitude for this time and place. Although movement challenges persist from that visitor called Parkinson’s we continue forward being thankful for the opportunity to press on. Occasionally we are visited by fatigue, persistent pain and resistance to movement. These visitors are sometimes met with anger, sometimes with determination, and at others with tears. Absorbing the beauty of the present moment away from the effects of those nasty visitors renews this heart with wonder, encouragement and gratitude. This place, this day, this view from the deck ignites the fuel that propels us to live to the fullest. May we seek out each day that place where thankfulness washes over us and renews our hearts with gratitude!