Yesterday, when I was out running before 5:00 a.m., I cringed at the thought that by that same time today, there would be snow on the ground, and the temperatures would have dropped by thirty degrees. But this morning, as I sit and type this and gaze out the window at the layer of snow coating my world, I catch myself smiling. The human mind is a funny thing; sometimes you can find something to be thankful for in something that you don’t necessarily like.
The hopeful part of me, the grateful part of me, wants to think that everyone is capable of these moments. I want to believe that if we take enough time to look around us, to remember what we have, that we can be thankful for something. My cynicism and my worry are hard-working catalysts to this hope. Nonetheless, my mind will constantly drift to those who aren’t in a place where they can look out their window and see the first snow. Somehow, even without that luxury, people find good.
Yesterday, while in line at the post office, I held my nephew in my arms and found myself mentally crossing my fingers that he’d remain content looking around at a new place and not get antsy and impatient in a way that only eighteen-month-old children can. As cute as he is, sometimes it is easier if he does not draw attention. We were about four from the first in line, probably a five-minute wait, when he looks up at me, raises his eyebrows and takes a deep breath. I knew he was about to yell, but like a freight train careening right toward you, there was nothing I could do but watch. “I” he screamed, pointing to his eye. “LOOOOVEEEEE” he continued, smacking his chest hard. “YOU!” And there in the post office, with his index finger pointed straight out almost in my eye, I remembered to see the positive possibilities.
And I hope we all can find a way to remember this. Even when we’re just looking to get from Point A to Point B, there’s good reason to enjoy it anyway. Even in times when we’re static, unable to completely accept what may be ahead, it’s a good idea to try to embrace it anyway. Maybe you’re not there yet, not ready to take it all in. But there’s no reason you can’t be on your way.
Robb says:
I completely agree with you. Well said.
November 21st, 2007 at 7:18 am
Danielle says:
OK, screaming kids can get annoying in lines, in stores, etc…but there isn’t anything better to hear from someone. That had to fill your heart. I am a cynic as well, but there is always sometime, some point, during this time of year, when the snow comes (even though I don’t like it) or just some little thing happens and I just think that even with all the bad in the world, at some point in time, each person finds that moment. It’s just too bad we couldn’t all, just once, find it all together.
November 21st, 2007 at 7:56 am
anne says:
why is your nephew so adroable!!! have a wonderful thanksgiving with your family.
November 21st, 2007 at 8:33 am
backofpack says:
You are so wise…and it’s obvious your nephew realizes it!
Happy T-day!
November 21st, 2007 at 9:06 am
JACC says:
I love fresh snow. My problem with winter is snow’s thug brother, the cold.
November 21st, 2007 at 10:14 am
runliarun says:
Unless we’re in a concentration camp, there’s always a lot to be grateful about. If we do not find the strength to be so we are in need of perspective.
November 21st, 2007 at 10:26 am
barbara bruederlin says:
Oh bless, your nephew is such as joy! That’s the kind of screaming kid I could stand behind in line all day!
November 21st, 2007 at 10:29 am
The Exception says:
It is so nice that you are looking for those little things - those little treasures. There are times, with a screaming kid, that it is more challenging to find them… but they are there all the same.
Have a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving!
November 21st, 2007 at 11:22 am
Cat Chaser says:
Kids aren’t real people; they’re loud, always running around, giggling and spilling punch everywhere. I guess I get an A in “flirting with women”, but in “likability of kids” a big D. Anyways
Happy Thanksgiving
November 21st, 2007 at 12:47 pm
sizzle says:
love this post. so true!
November 21st, 2007 at 2:54 pm
Airam says:
Such a cute story! And the snowy world you gazed upon this morning will be coming my way for tomorrow morning!
November 21st, 2007 at 4:42 pm
OC says:
Well said. You are absolutely right - there are little moments, little blessings, silver linings in everything that we can - and should - be thankful for. Thank you for pointing out a few.
Happy Turkey Day.
November 21st, 2007 at 5:16 pm
Nicole says:
Happy Thanksgiving.
November 21st, 2007 at 7:54 pm
Database Diva says:
You can’t enjoy every minute of your life, but the moment in the post office is the kind of memory you treasure forever.
Snow is kind of like dating. In the beginning you think about all the things you like, and then later you obsess on the things that irritate you. Hmm, maybe snow is more like marriage
November 22nd, 2007 at 12:20 am