The Storm

Seems appropriate for this morning's weather:

And once the storm is over,

you won't remember

how you made it through,

how you managed to survive.

You won't even be sure

whether the storm is really over.

But one thing is certain ...

when you come out of the storm,

you won't be the same person

who walked in.

That's what the storm

is all about.

~ Haruku Murakami

This too shall pass.

What a gift ...

We were blessed with a beautiful granddaughter
about a year and a half ago.

Although it is so difficult to have her so far away,

she just brings joy and sass to every day she touches.

She's an absolute treasure

and an incredible blessing to the family.

I had always heard about what a grandbaby can do

to your heart and your soul and your life.

It's all true ... and it's amazing.

But ...

What no one tells you,

is that the icing on top,

the almost more precious gift

than that wee, tiny human,

is the giddiness;

the complete love and awe;

the sheer elation

that it brings out in your own kids.

To see and hear and bear witness

to THAT kind of love ...

is an absolutely beautiful gift.

Thankful

Have always loved this thought process:

Be thankful

for closed doors,

detours,

and roadblocks.

They protect you

from paths and places

not meant

for you.

No author given,

but dang ... that's some good stuff!

A great lesson

I may have posted this previously,
but it's because I really, really like it;
and perhaps ...
some folks need to be reminded.

The world

is changed

by your example,

not 

by your opinion.

~ Paulo Coelho

Truth!

Not just for Black Friday,
but for always.
Every. Single. Day.

Do not get upset

with people or situations.

Both are powerless

without your reaction.

So, so many times

I have opened my mouth

in reaction

and then immediately shut it,

thought carefully,

focused,

and then responded.

The Weaving

What you leave behind
is not what is engraved

in stone monuments;

but what is woven

into the lives of others.

~ Pericles

Be thankful for the weaving

that has taken place prior to you,

and be sure to continue

a beautiful masterpiece

in the hearts and souls of 

those around you.

What you weave

is up to you.

A favorite

One of my most favorite of messages:

When you are hanging on

by a thread,

make sure it is

the hem

of His garment.