Blessings

I’ve been silent for some time now. Life took some twists and turns I didn’t see coming and I made a choice to be more introspective. It was a painful time in many ways and in many others a time of great growth. As I begin the year 2020, I am reminded of the blessings that have come my way. It is so easy when in the midst of turmoil, change, and disappointment to forget those blessings, and thus today I feel that a heartfelt thank you is due to the universe.

Last night sadness draped over me when heartbreaking news came my way. As 2020 began, I felt optimistic. A job I love, family and friends who enrich my life, a new puppy joining our family and beginning his training as a search dog. A new book finished. A play being produced in the local theater. All joyful things and yet in an instant, a cloud covers the joy. Loss looms dark and heartbreaking on the horizon and it does not matter what is said or done, that fact cannot be changed. It is the way of the universe and yet it crushes the soul.

I look out the window and watch as the six month old puppy runs and jumps with joy and abandon. He sees the morning with happiness for the adventure and promise it brings to him. He asks for nothing only reveling in the promise of the new day. He makes me remember that while sadness and loss will touch me in ways that will leave holes in my heart, I cannot forget the blessings. Each day brings them if only we take a moment to reflect. Life has taken many twists and turns I did not, and could not, anticipate but life has also brought me more than I could have ever imagined. Today, I embrace the blessings.