An attitude of gratitude

Dear Friends,

Greetings to all of you on this new day! Today is Palm Sunday. In Costa
Rica, it marks the beginning of Holy Week, a week traditionally devoted to
family, introspection and a celebration of the mysteries that help inspire us
in our daily living. I can hear the clay-colored thrush’s strong, melodious
song pleading for rain. As I observe the brown landscape, I understand
their unyielding demand. Get out early today and move your body in thanks.

A few weeks ago some friends in Canada shared pictures of their cars under
a blanket of snow. As I basked in the warmth of my garden, I remembered
the New York winters of my childhood. The memories of my extremities
going numb no matter how bulky my gloves were or how thick the socks I
wore, sent chills down my spine even on that hot morning in Atenas. I am so
happy to be getting pictures of daffodils and crocuses, a sure sign of Spring.

One of my favorite pastimes lately is taking a walk around our neighborhood.
The dry season has made everything different shades of brown and yellow, an
interesting palette to be appreciated for its contribution to an artist’s canvas.
The trees that bloom during this time seem more vibrant due to the unobstrusive
background. I am amazed year after year; Nature’s colorful cycle catches me by
surprise.

We recently harvested a delicious soursop from one of our trees. The tiny buds
are beginning to bloom on our corteza amarilla (a bit late!). These are two very
tangible gifts from Nature that inject me with hopeful optimism, just as those
springs in New York always did when I was a child. Now that I am older, I see
how important it was for me to develop an attitude of gratitude regardless of
where I was. Life is full of promise and I will continue to seek it.

Have a wonderful Sunday and a quiet, contemplative week, Marietta