Tag: Hope

A moment of thanksgiving

After weeks of packing and several days of moving, unpacking and beginning the process to become familiar with my new home, I sit tonight happy to take a deep breath surrounded by mountains, warm blankets and Lilly (make no mistake – she has worked hard to herd, comfort and stay alert throughout this transition).

My friends are still working to set up my apartment as much as they can before leaving. They have been so dedicated and willing. We have laughed a lot and shared some tears. It will be difficult to say goodbye.

As evening closes – I am reminded that we are in the days of Lent. with so many distractions I have only been able to live these days grateful for the prayerful devotion shared by others. Tonight I hear this hymn and remember that the sharing of inspired devotion has been passed through many generations.

For a moment I am immersed in our spiritual journey… In thanksgiving.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMNMKxOyGq8&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Glory to thee my God this night
For all the blessings of the light
Keep me, O keep me, King of Kings
Beneath thine own almighty wings

Forgive me, Lord, for thy dear son
The I’ll that I this day have done
That with the world, myself and thee
I e’er I sleep at peace may be

Praise God from whom all blessings flow
Praise Him all creatures here below
Praise Him above angelic host
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost

A Valentine to share…

For several years this song has held a special place in my heart. It speaks of memories – a time past yet ever bright. Many have sung this beautiful song – Eva Cassidy weaves the lyrics through an amazing melody.

May it offer a gentle moment on this Valentine Day —

FIELDS OF GOLD

By my side…

For nine years I have greeted each day with my companion, Lilly, by my side. Trained to be an assist dog, she has retrieved multiple objects dropped or out of my reach – from pens to book, from coat hangers to telephones – Lilly has heard the call for these and many other items and made her way from floor to my lap or arms, her attention focused on where I am and my care.

These days Lilly seldom leaves my sight. Her intuition is sharp – she knows we are in another time of transition. Boxes have begun to appear, and as before, she knows that means change is in the air. It is no secret to friends and family, from the beginning my retirement has filled me with mixed emotions. There are moments in a day when I have to stop – to regroup – to grieve. Overwhelmed with the change and the current preparation to move, I decided long ago – when I needed a “crying break” I would take it.

A few days ago it was time for one of those ‘breaks’. With all of the resources she could find, Lilly tended to my sadness. From cleaning my hands to putting her head in my lap, she tried everything to ‘settle’ me. Finally after a whimper or two of her own, she went to the door and barked. As my assistant entered, Lilly led her to me and stood by my side. She watched – when I began to calm she stretched out beside me with a sigh.

 As I continue to re-adjust to my newer limitations, Lilly carries hope. She brings delight in each day and maintains a routine that helps me refocus when I am feeling most scattered.  With only a few weeks before she and I move to a new home, she reminds me time and again that I am not alone.  She will remain by my side waiting to nudge me when ‘we’ need a break from the work of  sorting and packing.  She knows to keep track of the important things –  a walk in the fresh air or the evening game of ball – after all, (she says with her wise and playful eyes) life is an adventure and so much lies ahead for us. Her presence in my life remains a delight, bringing comfort when no words need be spoken.  

I end this day in gratitude for my companion, Lilly.

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