My husband and I recently had a visit with a nephew, his lovely wife, and their adorable 3-month-old baby girl. Being with this young family brings us back three or four decades, when we each were up in the middle of night for diaper changes, feedings and then, trying to catch a few ZZZ’s during the baby’s daytime naps. Nothing compares to the joys of those cuddles in the rocking chair.
“There is a large measure of joy in ordinary moments ” ~ Susan Gale Wickes
I feel I rushed those moments that turned into years while looking for the next season and stages of life. Isn’t it living in the present moment that is most essential? Watching the birds feed and protect their young warms my heart. Time spent in nature with the trees, rivers, beach, and meadows of wildflowers calms any qualms. Writing poems and short stories keep me balanced along with reading Holy Scriptures and inspirational words.
The feeling of regret is uncomfortable; therefore, I have chosen to slow down a whole lot in this season of my life. With my partial retirement, I am shifting to a lower gear. I don’t want to stop discovering and living a full life. My energy is spent on worthy endeavors. Lifelong learning, embracing newness, intimacy with my relationships, thankfulness, and giving to others continue to be my aim. What do you aim for in this season of your life? If need be, start all over again.
“If you knew that hope and despair were paths to the same destination, which would you choose?” ~ Robert Breault
Woman Warrior 