The Katywompus Journal Observing Life's Little Quirks by Diane Moody |
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Entry #38: Unexpected Joys
Ever stop and think about the little unexpected joys that come along in life? Those sweet, hidden surprises that flavor your day? I suppose this comes under that infamous stop-and-smell-the-roses category. We're all guilty of flying through life, racing through each and every day just "doing life." In most cases, that takes every ounce of energy we have and then some. There's nothing left in us to consider much beyond that. There's no question, life is exhausting. In other words, it takes a concerted effort to stop and literally force ourselves to take a deep breath, and for a moment - even just one moment - to notice the simple pleasures that surround us. And they are all around us. We just rarely see them. I'm an early riser. A few weeks ago, I was watching the morning war coverage on MSNBC. Before rousting my own troops out of bed for the day, I caught myself. I had just taken that first sip of the morning - freshly brewed, steaming hot coffee with a hint of vanilla. I suddenly realized it was wonderful. Like one of those cheesy commercials on TV, I closed my eyes and savored the aroma, the warmth, and the rich flavor all at once. It was raining outside and a touch of spring chill was still in the air. For some reason, in that moment on that day, my coffee never tasted better. I sat down in my easy chair, the soft leather molded itself around me, and our lovable little dog hopped silently onto my lap. She nestled herself into the folds of my robe and let out the most heavenly sigh, as if to say ahhhh . . . I couldn't agree more. And that's when it hit me. Something as simple as hot coffee and an adoring family pet filled me with such unexpected pleasure. I realized it's something that happens almost every single day - this same routine. But I never stop to absorb the gentle goodness of it. I never consciously count the blessing of it, simple as it may seem. We all dwell on the stresses and pressures and heartaches and annoyances and aggravations of life. I know I do. But rarely do we open our eyes to revel in those hidden treasures all around us. Why is that? Why don't we make the effort to appreciate the little things along the way? Case in point. Ever catch of glimpse of downtown Nashville at night? It's a stunning image, one we often miss as we dash by on the interstate. Or how about a thoughtful note or email from a friend offering encouragement in a time of need? Do we genuinely grasp how special that is? What about the gift of time? Are we cognizant of the generosity involved when a friend takes time out to meet us for breakfast or lunch? Unexpected joys . . . like finding the dishwasher has been emptied (a secret gift of love from my husband who knows it's not my favorite thing to do). Or feeling the arm of my teenage son drape over my shoulders in an impromptu gesture of affection while out in public. Love that. Watching my new Stars and Stripes snap in the breeze against a clear, blue sky, reminding me of those still fighting for freedom half a world away. Drinking in the inebriating scent of honeysuckle along our country lanes. The murmur of the wind rushing through the trees on a sunny afternoon. Observing the excited, expectant bluebird couple nesting in our birdhouse. Babies on the way! Maybe it's the hope of new life that spring always ushers in. Maybe it's the harsh realities of war. Whatever the underlying reason, I know it's a good time for all of us to seek out the simple joys surrounding us, and if only for one single solitary moment, to breathe a sigh of unmasked pleasure. Go ahead. Try it. Who knows? Maybe it'll become a daily habit. And wouldn't that be a good thing? Click HERE to send Diane an email. She welcomes your comments and suggestions. She's Flying the Coop Blessed are the poor... Back to School It All Started With Eve It's Almost Here! Forget About Weapons of Mass Destruction - let’s Talk Hormones The Other "W" "If only I could..." "Put Down That Remote and Step Away From the TV!" Take This Job and Love It! As the Stomach turns! Pet Peeves Cue the Balloons! A Picture Perfect Thanksgiving 'Twas Two Months Before Christmas . . . Egg Nog & Popcorn The Importance of Making Christmas Memories Step Away from the Mistletoe! O Crystal Ball . . . 2003 Unplugged Geek is Chic! Mind Your Manners! Go "Figure" You’ve Gotta Laugh Reality Check A Parent’s Worst Nightmare Notice Me! It's Not About the Stuff Too Many Buns! What's Your Legacy? Music to My Ears Why, Thank You! Ah, Spring! Mel vs. the Easter Bunny He Did It! He Finally Did It! |
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