Dear Friends,
I woke up this morning with an incredible feeling of optimism. The breezes
of the season summon an assortment of memories of celebrations we have
hosted in our home. I look across the horizon and behold the evidence of the
dry season’s arrival. A few dark spots on the lawn confirm this fact. Time
moves on quickly and I invite you to get out early today and enjoy a walk
around your neighborhood. Your body will be grateful and so will your mind!
It is hard to believe how quickly this year has passed. I know I say that often
but it feels truer than ever this year. I stopped for a moment yesterday to focus
on carefully and slowly watering my increasing collection of healthy African
violets. Despite giving away a few this year, I still have plenty of them. Their
constant flowering puts a smile on my face each time I pass them during the
day. This is the perfect hobby for me, it allows me to take a few minutes each
day to be fully present and appreciative of the small things in my life.
I am looking forward to the new year. Among my “resolutions” will be taking
stock of activities where I misspend my time. Time is something we can’t get
back so it’s important to use it wisely as we go. My goal is to slow down, be
fully present for the things I undertake and not get so busy that I miss the
dancing of the swallows in the afternoon just before the sun begins to set. I
daydream of these things and have for a long time. It is time to act!
Being part of the Hogar de Ancianos’ board of directors reminds me on an
almost weekly basis about the reality of mortality. It is impossible to keep it
in the dark corners of my consciousness. In a way it is a blessing because it
allows me to reflect on what has always been important to me: my own inner
growth and my desire to make a difference in whatever small way I can in
the lives of those in my circle. That is my goal with this weekly newsletter,
which I intend to continue in the new year!
Have a wonderful day and a terrific week, Marietta
Marisundays 